Methods of using IL-17 receptor a antibodies

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to IL-17 Receptor A antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies, and methods for diagnosing and treating diseases mediated by IL-17 Receptor A activation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/906,078, filed Sep. 27, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,833,527, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119 of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/969,895, filed Sep. 4, 2007, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/873,072, filed Dec. 5, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/827,882, filed Oct. 2, 2006, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING

The present application is being filed along with a Sequence Listing in electronic format. The Sequence Listing is provided as a file entitled A-1116-US-DIV3_seq_listing.txt, created Oct. 6, 2010, which is 208 KB in size. The information in the electronic format of the Sequence Listing is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to IL-17 Receptor A (IL-17RA or IL-17R) antibodies and methods for using said antibodies for diagnosing and treating diseases mediated by IL-17 Receptor A activation by one or more IL-17 ligands.

BACKGROUND

IL-17A is an inflammatory cytokine initially identified as a transcript selectively expressed by activated T cells. IL-17RA is a ubiquitously expressed and shown to bind IL-17A with an affinity of approximately 0.5 nM (Yao et al., 1995, Immunity 3:811-821). Five additional IL-17-like ligands (IL-17B-IL-17F) and four additional IL-17RA-like receptors (IL-17RB-IL-17RE) have been identified (Kolls and Linden, 2004, Immunity 21:467-476).

IL-17RC has been shown to bind IL-17A and IL-17F. The observations that IL-17RA deficiency and IL-17RA antibody neutralization ablate both IL-17A and IL-17F function suggest that IL-17RC cannot deliver an IL-17A or IL-17F signal in the absence of IL-17RA (Toy et al., 2006, J. Immunol. 177:36-39; McAllister et al., 2005, J. Immunol. 175:404-412). Additionally, forced expression of IL-17RC in IL-17RA deficient cells does not restore IL-17A or IL-17F function (Toy et al., 2006, J. Immunol. 177:36-39).

IL-17A and IL-17F are predominantly expressed by activated CD4⁺ memory T cells (Kolls and Linden, 2004, supra). It has been proposed that an IL-17A-producing pathogenic CD4+ T cell subset, ThIL-17, is expanded in the presence of IL-23 (Langrish et al., 2005, J. Exp. Med. 201:233-240). Additionally, both IL-15 and the TNF superfamily member OX40L have been shown to induce the expression of IL-17A (Nakae et al., 2003b, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 100:5986-5990; Ziolkowska et al., 2000, J. Immunol. 164:2832-2838). IL-6 and TGF-beta also induce the expression of IL-17A.

IL-17A and IL-17F bind and activate IL-17RA. IL-17RA has been shown to be important in regulating immune responses. Activation of the IL-17RA leads to production of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and other proteins that contribute to the symptoms and/or pathology of numerous diseases. IL-17A is an inflammatory cytokine that induces the production of cytokines and other mediators leading to diseases and physiological effects such as inflammation, cartilage degradation, and bone resorption. IL-17A also plays a role in a number of inflammatory conditions including arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis), psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, and asthma. (Li et al., 2004, Huazhong Univ. Sci. Technolog. Med. Sci. 24:294-296; Fujino et al., 2003, Gut. 52:65-70; Kauffman et al., 2004, J. Invest. Dermatol. 123:1037-1044; Mannon et al., 2004, N. Engl. J Med. 351:2069-2079; Matusevicius et al., 1999, Mult Scler 5, 101-104; Linden et al., Eur Respir J. 2000 May; 15(5):973-7; Molet et al., 2001, J. Allergy Clin. Immunol. 108:430-438). Recent studies have suggested that IL-17F plays a role in the induction of inflammatory responses (Oda et al., 2006, American J. Resp. Crit. Care Medicine, Jan. 15, 2006; Numasaki et al., 2004, Immunol Lett. 95:97-104).

Aspects of the invention provide for the treatment of disease using antibodies that specifically bind IL-17RA and inhibit IL-17RA activation mediated by IL-17 family members

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows that the mean clinical scores of IL-17RA −/− mice (knockout mice or KO mice) are much lower than that of wild-type (WT) mice in a CIA model of arthritis.

FIG. 2 shows the delay in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) onset for IL-17RA knockout mice compared to wild-type mice in a myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-induced model.

FIG. 3 shows reduced clinical scores in IL-17RA knockout mice as compared to wild-type mice in a MOG-induced model.

FIG. 4 shows IL-17RA knockout mice have reduced total numbers of inflammatory cells in BAL fluid compared to wild-type in an ovalbumin-induced model of asthma.

FIG. 5 shows IL-17RA knockout mice have reduced numbers of esoinophils (FIG. 5A), neutrophils (FIG. 5B) and lymphocytes (FIG. 5C) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid as compared to wild-type mice in an ovalbumin-induced model of asthma. FIG. 5D shows no changes in BAL fluid macrophage observed in either WT or IL-17RA knockout mice (naïve and OVA challenged).

FIG. 6 shows dose-dependent inhibition by an IL-17RA mAb in a wild-type (WT) collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model. A P<0.05 was seen when comparing IL-17RA mAb at 100 μg and 300 μg treatment groups versus control treatment group (days 13, 15 and 16).

FIG. 7 shows the results of therapeutic treatment with IL-17RA mAb. The data shows stabilized mean clinical scores in wild-type mice in a standard CIA model of arthritis. These data demonstrate that IL-17RA inhibition by an IL-17RA antigen binding protein may be therapeutically useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA), especially in the preservation of joint bone and cartilage.

FIG. 8 shows that therapeutic treatment with anti-IL-17RA mAb stabilized mean clinical scores in TNFR p55/p75 knockout mice in a standard CIA model of arthritis. These data show that IL-17RA inhibition by an IL-17RA antigen binding protein may be therapeutically useful in treating RA, especially in the preservation of joint bone and cartilage. Notably, IL-17RA inhibition was able to stabilize disease in a model independent of TNF signaling.

FIG. 9 shows exemplary IL-17RA human mAbs (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14, AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22, AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19, and AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) were able to inhibit cynomologous IL-17-induced IL-6 production from JTC-12 cells (cynomologous kidney cell line). The (----) line depicts the positive control value of cynomologous IL-17 in combination with TNF-alpha. The (-.-.-) line depicts the positive control value of cynomologous TNF-alpha. The (....) line depicts the media control value.

FIG. 10 shows sequence variation in the framework regions of SEQ ID NO:40 (AM_(L)14) in relation to germline residues and the effect on IC50 values.

FIG. 11 shows that the two variants having residues returned to germline (see FIG. 10) had reduced IL-17A inhibitory activity in relation to AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14, indicating that some variation in the framework regions was tolerated but that some residues may influence activity. The (----) line indicates the positive control value of IL-17 stimulation in the absence of antibody (approximately 4062 pg/ml).

FIG. 12 shows that the two variants having residues returned to germline (see FIG. 10) had reduced IL-17F (in combination with TNF-alpha) inhibitory activity in relation to AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

Standard techniques may be used for recombinant DNA, oligonucleotide synthesis, tissue culture and transformation, protein purification etc. Enzymatic reactions and purification techniques may be performed according to the manufacturer's specifications or as commonly accomplished in the art or as described herein. The following procedures and techniques may be generally performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in various general and more specific references that are cited and discussed throughout the specification. See, e.g., Sambrook et al., 2001, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 3^(rd) ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., which is incorporated herein by reference for any purpose. Unless specific definitions are provided, the nomenclature used in connection with, and the laboratory procedures and techniques of, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry described herein are those well known and commonly used in the art. Standard techniques may be used for chemical synthesis, chemical analyses, pharmaceutical preparation, formulation, and delivery and treatment of patients.

IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-17RA

The biologic activities of IL-17A and IL-17F are dependent upon IL-17RA, as shown herein using both cells and mice that are genetically deficient in IL-17RA and with neutralizing mAbs (monoclonal antibodies) directed against IL-17RA (see Examples below).

“IL-17 receptor A” or “IL-17RA” (interchangeably used herein, as well as IL-17 receptor and IL-17R to refer to the same receptor) as used herein is meant the cell surface receptor and receptor complexes (such as but not limited to IL-17RA-IL-17RC complex), that bind IL-17A and IL-17F and as a result initiates a signal transduction pathway within the cell. IL-17RA proteins may also include variants. IL-17RA proteins may also include fragments, such as the extracellular domain that don't have all or part of the transmembrane and/or the intracellular domain, as well as fragments of the extracellular domain. The cloning, characterization, and preparation of IL-17RA are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,072,033, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The amino acid sequence of the human IL-17RA is shown in SEQ ID NO:430. Soluble forms of huIL-17RA useful in the methods of the present invention include the extracellular domain or the mature form lacking the signal peptide or a fragment of the extracellular domain that retains the capacity to bind IL-17A and/or IL-17F, or a heteromeric version of IL-17A and/or IL-17F. Other forms of IL-17RA include muteins and variants that are at least between 70% and 99% homologous to the native IL-17RA of SEQ ID NO:430 and as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,072,033, so long as the IL-17RA retains the capacity to bind IL-17A and/or IL-17F, or a heteromeric version of IL-17A and/or IL-17F. The term “IL-17RA” also includes post-translational modifications of the IL-17RA amino acid sequence. Post-translational modifications include, but is not limited to, N- and O-linked glycosylation.

IL-17RA Antigen Binding Proteins

The present invention provides antigen binding proteins that specifically bind IL-17RA. Embodiments of antigen binding proteins comprise peptides and/or polypeptides (that optionally include post-translational modifications) that specifically bind IL-17RA. Embodiments of antigen binding proteins comprise antibodies and fragments thereof, as variously defined herein, that specifically bind IL-17RA. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F from binding and activating IL-17RA, or a heteromeric complex of IL-17RA and IL-17RC. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and inhibit an IL-17A/IL-17F heteromer from binding and activating IL-17RA, or a heteromeric complex of IL-17RA and IL-17RC. Throughout the specification, when reference is made to inhibiting IL-17A and/or IL-17F, it is understood that this also includes inhibiting heteromers of IL-17A and IL-17F. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and partially or fully inhibit IL-17RA from forming either a homomeric or heteromeric functional receptor complex, such as, but not limited to, an IL-17RA-IL-17RC complex. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and partially or fully inhibit IL-17RA from forming either a homomeric or heteromeric functional receptor complex, such as, but not limited to IL-17RA/IL-17RC complex and do not necessarily inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F or an IL-17A/IL-17F heteromer from binding to IL-17RA or a IL-17RA heteromeric receptor complex.

The antigen binding proteins of the invention specifically bind to IL-17RA. “Specifically binds” as used herein means that the antigen binding protein preferentially binds IL-17RA over other proteins. In some embodiments “specifically binds” means that the IL-17RA antigen binding proteins have a higher affinity for IL-17RA than for other proteins. For example, the equilibrium dissociation constant is <10⁻⁷ to 10⁻¹¹ M, or <10⁻⁸ to <10⁻¹⁰ M, or <10⁻⁹ to <10⁻¹⁰ M.

It is understood that when reference is made to the various embodiments of the IL-17RA antibodies described herein, that it also encompasses IL-17RA-binding fragments thereof. An IL-17RA-binding fragment comprises any of the antibody fragments or domains described herein that retains the ability to specifically bind to IL-17RA. Said IL-17RA-binding fragments may be in any of the scaffolds described herein. Said IL-17RA-binding fragments also have the capacity to inhibit activation of the IL-17RA, as described throughout the specification.

In embodiments where the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is used for therapeutic applications, one characteristic of an IL-17RA antigen binding protein is that it can inhibit binding of IL-17A and/or IL-17F to IL-17RA and one or more biological activities of, or mediated by, IL-17RA. Such antibodies are considered neutralizing antibodies because of their capacity to inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F from binding and causing IL-17RA signaling and/or biological activity. In this case, an antigen binding protein specifically binds IL-17RA and inhibits binding of IL-17A and/or IL-17F to IL-17RA from anywhere between 10 to 100%, such as by at least about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99% or more (for example by measuring binding in an in vitro competitive binding assay as described herein). For example, IL-17RA antibodies may be tested for neutralizing ability by testing them for the production of IL-6 in human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) assay (see for example Examples 8 and 9), or any suitable assay known in the art. Examples, for illustrative purposes only, of additional biological activity of IL-17RA (e.g., assay readouts) to test for inhibition of IL-17RA signaling and/or biological activity include in vitro and/or in vivo measurement of one or more of IL-8, CXCL1, CXCL2, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, IL-1β, TNFα, RANK-L, LIF, PGE2, IL-12, MMPs (such as but not limited to MMP3 and MMP9), GROα, NO, and/or C-telopeptide and the like.

Embodiments of antigen binding proteins comprise a scaffold structure, as variously define herein, with one or more complementarity determining regions (CDRs). Embodiments of antigen binding proteins comprise a scaffold structure with one or more variable domains, either heavy or light. Embodiments include antibodies that comprise a light chain variable region selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26 (SEQ ID NO:27-53, respectively, with AM_(L)23 having two versions—SEQ ID NOs:49 and 50) and/or a heavy chain variable region selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26 (SEQ ID NO:1-26, respectively), and fragments, derivatives, muteins, and variants thereof.

Additional examples of scaffolds that are envisioned include: fibronectin, neocarzinostatin CBM4-2, lipocalins, T-cell receptor, protein-A domain (protein Z), Im9, TPR proteins, zinc finger domains, pVIII, avian pancreatic polypeptide, GCN4, WW domain, Src homology domain 3, PDZ domains, TEM-1 Beta-lactamase, thioredoxin, staphylococcal nuclease, PHD-finger domains, CL-2, BPTI, APPI, HPSTI, ecotin, LACI-D1, LDTI, MTI-II, scorpion toxins, insect defensin-A peptide, EETI-II, Min-23, CBD, PBP, cytochrome b-562, Ldl receptor domains, gamma-crystallin, ubiquitin, transferring, and/or C-type lectin-like domains.

Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising the following variable domains: AM_(L)1/AM_(H)1 (SEQ ID NO:27/SEQ ID NO:1), AM_(L)2/AM_(H)2 (SEQ ID NO:28/SEQ ID NO:2), AM_(L)3/AM_(H)3 (SEQ ID NO:29/SEQ ID NO:3), AM_(L)4/AM_(H)4 (SEQ ID NO:30/SEQ ID NO:4), AM_(L)5/AM_(H)5 (SEQ ID NO:31/SEQ ID NO:5), AM_(L)6/AM_(H)6 (SEQ ID NO:32/SEQ ID NO:6), AM_(L)7/AM_(H)7 (SEQ ID NO:33/SEQ ID NO:7), AM_(L)8/AM_(H)8 (SEQ ID NO:34/SEQ ID NO:8), AM_(L)9/AM_(H)9 (SEQ ID NO:35/SEQ ID NO:9), AM_(L)10/AM_(H)10 (SEQ ID NO:36/SEQ ID NO:10), AM_(L)11/AM_(H)11 (SEQ ID NO:37/SEQ ID NO:11), AM_(L)12/AM_(H)12 (SEQ ID NO:38/SEQ ID NO:12), AM_(L)13/AM_(H)13 (SEQ ID NO:39/SEQ ID NO:13), AM_(L)14/AM_(H)14 (SEQ ID NO:40/SEQ ID NO:14), AM_(L)15/AM_(H)15 (SEQ ID NO:41/SEQ ID NO:15), AM_(L)16/AM_(H)16 (SEQ ID NO:42/SEQ ID NO:16), AM_(L)17/AM_(H)17 (SEQ ID NO:43/SEQ ID NO:17), AM_(L)18/AM_(H)18 (SEQ ID NO:44/SEQ ID NO:18), AM_(L)19/AM_(H)19 (SEQ ID NO:45/SEQ ID NO:19), AM_(L)20/AM_(H)20 (SEQ ID NO:46/SEQ ID NO:20), AM_(L)21/AM_(H)21 (SEQ ID NO:47/SEQ ID NO:21), AM_(L)22/AM_(H)22 (SEQ ID NO:48/SEQ ID NO:22), AM_(L)23/AM_(H)23 (SEQ ID NO:49 or SEQ ID NO:50/SEQ ID NO:23), AM_(L)24/AM_(H)24 (SEQ ID NO:51/SEQ ID NO:24), AM_(L)25/AM_(H)25 (SEQ ID NO:52/SEQ ID NO:25), AM_(L)26/AM_(H)26 (SEQ ID NO:53/SEQ ID NO:26), and combinations thereof.

In a further embodiment, a first amino acid sequence comprises CDR3, CDR2, and CDR1, and a second amino acid sequence comprises a CDR3, CDR2, and CDR1 of TABLE 1.

In another embodiment, the antigen binding protein comprises: A) a heavy chain amino acid sequence that comprises at least one H-CDR1, H-CDR2, or H-CDR3 of a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26; and/or B) a light chain amino acid sequence that comprises at least one L-CDR1, L-CDR2, or L-CDR3 of a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:27-53.

In a further variation, the antigen binding protein comprises A) a heavy chain amino acid sequence that comprises a H-CDR1, a H-CDR2, and a H-CDR3 of any of SEQ ID NO:1-26, and B) a light chain amino acid sequence that comprises a L-CDR1, a L-CDR2, and a L-CDR3 of any of SEQ ID NO:27-53. In another variation, the antigen binding protein comprises an amino acid sequence that is of at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a heavy chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26 or a light chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:27-53.

In certain embodiments, the CDRs include no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions, or substitutions from a H-CDR1 (i.e., CDR1 of the heavy chain, etc.), H-CDR2, H-CDR3, L-CDR1 (i.e., CDR1 of the light chain, etc.), L-CDR2, and L-CDR3. See Table 1.

Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising a heavy chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26. Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising a light chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:27-53. Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising a heavy chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26 having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions, or substitutions. Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising a light chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:27-53 having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions, or substitutions. Aspects of the invention include antibodies comprising a heavy chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26 having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions, or substitutions and a light chain variable region selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:27-53 having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions, or substitutions.

In other embodiments, the heavy and light chain variable domains of the antigen binding proteins are defined by having a certain percent identity to a reference heavy and/or light chain variable domain. For example, the antigen binding protein comprises A) a heavy chain variable domain amino acid that is at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a heavy chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1-26; and B) a light chain variable domain amino acid that is at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a light chain amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs:27-53.

As a general structure, the antigen binding proteins of the invention comprise (a) a scaffold, and (b) one or a plurality of CDRs. A “complementary determining region” or “CDR,” as used herein, refers to a binding protein region that constitutes the major surface contact points for antigen binding. Embodiments of the invention include one or more CDRs embedded in a scaffold structure of the antigen binding protein. The scaffold structure of the antigen binding proteins may be the framework of an antibody, or fragment or variant thereof, or may be completely synthetic in nature. Examples of various scaffold structures of the antigen binding proteins of the invention are further described hereinbelow.

The antigen binding proteins of the invention include scaffold regions and one or more CDRs. An antigen binding protein of the invention may have between one and six CDRs (as typically do naturally occurring antibodies), for example, one heavy chain CDR1 (“H-CDR1”), and/or one heavy chain CDR2 (“H-CDR2”), and/or one heavy chain CDR3 (“H-CDR3”), and/or one light chain CDR1 (“L-CDR1”), and/or one light chain CDR2 (“L-CDR2”), and/or one light chain CDR3 (“L-CDR3”).

The term “naturally occurring” as used throughout the specification in connection with biological materials such as peptides, polypeptides, nucleic acids, host cells, and the like, refers to materials which are found in nature. In naturally occurring antibodies, a H-CDR1 typically comprises about five (5) to about seven (7) amino acids, H-CDR2 typically comprises about sixteen (16) to about nineteen (19) amino acids, and H-CDR3 typically comprises about three (3) to about twenty five (25) amino acids. L-CDR1 typically comprises about ten (10) to about seventeen (17) amino acids, L-CDR2 typically comprises about seven (7) amino acids, and L-CDR3 typically comprises about seven (7) to about ten (10) amino acids. Specific CDRs of the various antibodies of the invention are provided in TABLE 1 and the Sequence Listing.

TABLE 1 Corresponding Polynucleotide Sequence Amino acid SEQ ID NYYWN SEQ ID NO: 266 sequence of NO: 107 CDR 1 of AM_(H)1 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DIYYSGSTNYNPS SEQ ID NO: 267 sequence of NO: 108 LKS CDR 2 of AM_(H)1 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DGELANYYGSGS SEQ ID NO: 268 sequence of NO: 109 YQFYYYYGMDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)1 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GYYWS SEQ ID NO: 269 sequence of NO: 110 CDR 1 of AM_(H)2 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID EINHSGRTNYNPS SEQ ID NO: 270 sequence of NO: 111 LKS CDR 2 of AM_(H)2 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GPYYFDSSGYLYY SEQ ID NO: 271 sequence of NO: 112 YYGLDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)2 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGMH SEQ ID NO: 272 sequence of NO: 113 CDR 1 of AM_(H)3 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID VIWYDGSNKHYA SEQ ID NO: 273 sequence of NO: 114 DSVKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)3 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DTGVY SEQ ID NO: 274 sequence of NO: 115 CDR 3 of AM_(H)3 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGMH SEQ ID NO: 275 sequence of NO: 116 CDR 1 of AM_(H)4 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID VIWYDGSNKHYA SEQ ID NO: 276 sequence of NO: 117 DSVKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)4 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DTGVY SEQ ID NO: 277 sequence of NO: 118 CDR 3 of AM_(H)4 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYYWS SEQ ID NO: 278 sequence of NO: 119 CDR 1 of AM_(H)5 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RIYRSGNTIYNPSL SEQ ID NO: 279 sequence of NO: 120 KS CDR 2 of AM_(H)5 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID ENYSESSGLYYYY SEQ ID NO: 280 sequence of NO: 121 GMDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)5 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RYGIS SEQ ID NO: 281 sequence of NO: 122 CDR 1 of AM_(H)6 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYNGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 282 sequence of NO: 123 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)6 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RDYDILTGYYNGF SEQ ID NO: 283 sequence of NO: 124 DP CDR 3 of AM_(H)6 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RYGIS SEQ ID NO: 284 sequence of NO: 125 CDR 1 of AM_(H)7 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYNGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 285 sequence of NO: 126 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)7 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RDYDILTGYYNGF SEQ ID NO: 286 sequence of NO: 127 DP CDR 3 of AM_(H)7 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GYGIS SEQ ID NO: 287 sequence of NO: 128 CDR 1 of AM_(H)8 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYNGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 288 sequence of NO: 129 QNLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)8 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RDYDILTGYYNGF SEQ ID NO: 289 sequence of NO: 130 DP CDR 3 of AM_(H)8 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RYGIS SEQ ID NO: 290 sequence of NO: 131 CDR 1 of AM_(H)9 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYNGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 291 sequence of NO: 132 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)9 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RDYDILTGYYNGF SEQ ID NO: 292 sequence of NO: 133 DP CDR 3 of AM_(H)9 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SGGYYWS SEQ ID NO: 293 sequence of NO: 134 CDR 1 of AM_(H)10 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID YIYFSGSAYYNPS SEQ ID NO: 294 sequence of NO: 135 LKS CDR 2 of AM_(H)10 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID EYYDSSGYPDAFDI SEQ ID NO: 295 sequence of NO: 136 CDR 3 of AM_(H)10 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGMH SEQ ID NO: 296 sequence of NO: 137 CDR 1 of AM_(H)11 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID VIWYDGSNKYYA SEQ ID NO: 297 sequence of NO: 138 DSVKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)11 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DTKDY SEQ ID NO: 298 sequence of NO: 139 CDR 3 of AM_(H)11 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGIS SEQ ID NO: 299 sequence of NO: 140 CDR 1 of AM_(H)12 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISTYKGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 300 sequence of NO: 141 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)12 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID KQLVFDY SEQ ID NO: 301 sequence of NO: 142 CDR 3 of AM_(H)12 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGMQ SEQ ID NO: 302 sequence of NO: 143 CDR 1 of AM_(H)13 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID VIWYDGNKKYYA SEQ ID NO: 303 sequence of NO: 144 DSVKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)13 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GRVRDYYYGMDV SEQ ID NO: 304 sequence of NO: 145 CDR 3 of AM_(H)13 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RYGIS SEQ ID NO: 305 sequence of NO: 146 CDR 1 of AM_(H)14 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISTYSGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 306 sequence of NO: 147 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)14 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RQLYFDY SEQ ID NO: 307 sequence of NO: 148 CDR 3 of AM_(H)14 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGMQ SEQ ID NO: 308 sequence of NO: 149 CDR 1 of AM_(H)15 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID VIWYDGNKKYYA SEQ ID NO: 309 sequence of NO: 150 DSVKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)15 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GRVRDYYYGMDV SEQ ID NO: 310 sequence of NO: 151 CDR 3 of AM_(H)15 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGIS SEQ ID NO: 311 sequence of NO: 152 CDR 1 of AM_(H)16 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYNGNTKYA SEQ ID NO: 312 sequence of NO: 153 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)16 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID KQLVFDY SEQ ID NO: 313 sequence of NO: 154 CDR 3 of AM_(H)16 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGIS SEQ ID NO: 314 sequence of NO: 155 CDR 1 of AM_(H)17 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYSGNTKYA SEQ ID NO: 315 sequence of NO: 156 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)17 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID KQLVFDY SEQ ID NO: 316 sequence of NO: 157 CDR 3 of AM_(H)17 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DYYMH SEQ ID NO: 317 sequence of NO: 158 CDR 1 of AM_(H)18 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WMHPNSGGTDLA SEQ ID NO: 318 sequence of NO: 159 QRFQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)18 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID GGYCSTLSCSFYW SEQ ID NO: 319 sequence of NO: 160 YFDL CDR 3 of AM_(H)18 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYGIS SEQ ID NO: 320 sequence of NO: 161 CDR 1 of AM_(H)19 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYSGNTKYA SEQ ID NO: 321 sequence of NO: 162 QKFQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)19 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RQLALDY SEQ ID NO: 322 sequence of NO: 163 CDR 3 of AM_(H)19 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYSMN SEQ ID NO: 323 sequence of NO: 164 CDR 1 of AM_(H)20 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID FISARSSTIYYADS SEQ ID NO: 324 sequence of NO: 165 VKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)20 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID PKVGGGMDV SEQ ID NO: 325 sequence of NO: 166 CDR 3 of AM_(H)20 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYSMN SEQ ID NO: 326 sequence of NO: 167 CDR 1 of AM_(H)21 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID IISSRSSIIHYADSV SEQ ID NO: 327 sequence of NO: 168 KG CDR 2 of AM_(H)21 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID PKVGGGMDV SEQ ID NO: 328 sequence of NO: 169 CDR 3 of AM_(H)21 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RYGIS SEQ ID NO: 329 sequence of NO: 170 CDR 1 of AM_(H)22 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID WISAYSGNTNYA SEQ ID NO: 330 sequence of NO: 171 QKLQG CDR 2 of AM_(H)22 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RQLYFDY SEQ ID NO: 331 sequence of NO: 172 CDR 3 of AM_(H)22 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYYWS SEQ ID NO: 332 sequence of NO: 173 CDR 1 of AM_(H)23 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RIYPSGRTNYNPS SEQ ID NO: 333 sequence of NO: 174 LKS CDR 2 of AM_(H)23 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID EAYELQLGLYYY SEQ ID NO: 334 sequence of NO: 175 YGMDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)23 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SYYWS SEQ ID NO: 335 sequence of NO: 176 CDR 1 of AM_(H)24 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RIYPSGRTNYNPS SEQ ID NO: 336 sequence of NO: 177 LKS CDR 2 of AM_(H)24 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID EAYELQLGLYYY SEQ ID NO: 337 sequence of NO: 178 YGMDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)24 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID SGGYYWS SEQ ID NO: 338 sequence of NO: 179 CDR 1 of AM_(H)25 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID YSGNTYYNPSLRS SEQ ID NO: 339 sequence of NO: 180 CDR 2 of AM_(H)25 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID EAGGNSAYYYGM SEQ ID NO: 340 sequence of NO: 181 DV CDR 3 of AM_(H)25 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DYYMS SEQ ID NO: 341 sequence of NO: 182 CDR 1 of AM_(H)26 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID YISSSGSTIYYADS SEQ ID NO: 342 sequence of NO: 183 VKG CDR 2 of AM_(H)26 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID DRTYYFGSGSYEG SEQ ID NO: 343 sequence of NO: 184 MDV CDR 3 of AM_(H)26 Vh Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 345 sequence of NO: 185 CDR 1 of AM_(L)1 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 346 sequence of NO: 186 CDR 2 of AM_(L)1 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHNSNPFT SEQ ID NO: 347 sequence of NO: 187 CDR 3 of AM_(L)1 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSRNLV SEQ ID NO: 348 sequence of NO: 188 CDR 1 of AM_(L)2 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAN SEQ ID NO: 349 sequence of NO: 189 CDR 2 of AM_(L)2 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYKSWRT SEQ ID NO: 350 sequence of NO: 190 CDR 3 of AM_(L)2 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSISSYLN SEQ ID NO: 351 sequence of NO: 191 CDR 1 of AM_(L)3 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 352 sequence of NO: 192 CDR 2 of AM_(L)3 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQSYSTPFT SEQ ID NO: 353 sequence of NO: 193 CDR 3 of AM_(L)3 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSRNLA SEQ ID NO: 354 sequence of NO: 194 CDR 1 of AM_(L)4 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 355 sequence of NO: 195 CDR 2 of AM_(L)4 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYNNWPTWT SEQ ID NO: 356 sequence of NO: 196 CDR 3 of AM_(L)4 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 357 sequence of NO: 197 CDR 1 of AM_(L)5 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSFQS SEQ ID NO: 358 sequence of NO: 198 CDR 2 of AM_(L)5 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHNSYPPT SEQ ID NO: 359 sequence of NO: 199 CDR 3 of AM_(L)5 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 360 sequence of NO: 200 CDR 1 of AM_(L)6 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 361 sequence of NO: 201 CDR 2 of AM_(L)6 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHKSYPLT SEQ ID NO: 362 sequence of NO: 202 CDR 3 of AM_(L)6 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 363 sequence of NO: 203 CDR 1 of AM_(L)7 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 364 sequence of NO: 204 CDR 2 of AM_(L)7 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHKSYPLT SEQ ID NO: 365 sequence of NO: 205 CDR 3 of AM_(L)7 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 366 sequence of NO: 206 CDR 1 of AM_(L)8 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 367 sequence of NO: 207 CDR 2 of AM_(L)8 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHKSYPLT SEQ ID NO: 368 sequence of NO: 208 CDR 3 of AM_(L)8 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRNDLG SEQ ID NO: 369 sequence of NO: 209 CDR 1 of AM_(L)9 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 370 sequence of NO: 210 CDR 2 of AM_(L)9 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID LQHKSYPLT SEQ ID NO: 371 sequence of NO: 211 CDR 3 of AM_(L)9 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIRSWLA SEQ ID NO: 372 sequence of NO: 212 CDR 1 of AM_(L)10 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 373 sequence of NO: 213 CDR 2 of AM_(L)10 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQANNFPRT SEQ ID NO: 374 sequence of NO: 214 CDR 3 of AM_(L)10 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSSNLA SEQ ID NO: 375 sequence of NO: 215 CDR 1 of AM_(L)11 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAA SEQ ID NO: 376 sequence of NO: 216 CDR 2 of AM_(L)11 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QHYINWPKWT SEQ ID NO: 377 sequence of NO: 217 CDR 3 of AM_(L)11 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSISSSLA SEQ ID NO: 378 sequence of NO: 218 CDR 1 of AM_(L)12 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 379 sequence of NO: 219 CDR 2 of AM_(L)12 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDNWPLT SEQ ID NO: 380 sequence of NO: 220 CDR 3 of AM_(L)12 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID KSSQSLLHSDGKT SEQ ID NO: 381 sequence of NO: 221 YLY CDR 1 of AM_(L)13 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID EVSTRFS SEQ ID NO: 382 sequence of NO: 222 CDR 2 of AM_(L)13 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID MQSIQLPLT SEQ ID NO: 383 sequence of NO: 223 CDR 3 of AM_(L)13 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSSNLA SEQ ID NO: 384 sequence of NO: 224 CDR 1 of AM_(L)14 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID DASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 385 sequence of NO: 225 CDR 2 of AM_(L)14 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDNWPLT SEQ ID NO: 386 sequence of NO: 226 CDR 3 of AM_(L)14 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSSNLA SEQ ID NO: 387 sequence of NO: 227 CDR 1 of AM_(L)15 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID DASTRAA SEQ ID NO: 388 sequence of NO: 228 CDR 2 of AM_(L)15 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDNWPLT SEQ ID NO: 389 sequence of NO: 229 CDR 3 of AM_(L)15 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSISTSLA SEQ ID NO: 390 sequence of NO: 230 CDR 1 of AM_(L)16 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GTSTRAT SEQ ID NO: 391 sequence of NO: 231 CDR 2 of AM_(L)16 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDIWPLT SEQ ID NO: 392 sequence of NO: 232 CDR 3 of AM_(L)16 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSSNLA SEQ ID NO: 393 sequence of NO: 233 CDR 1 of AM_(L)17 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 394 sequence of NO: 234 CDR 2 of AM_(L)17 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDNWPLT SEQ ID NO: 395 sequence of NO: 235 CDR 3 of AM_(L)17 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID KTSQSVLYSSKNK SEQ ID NO: 396 sequence of NO: 236 NFLA CDR 1 of AM_(L)18 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID WASTRES SEQ ID NO: 397 sequence of NO: 237 CDR 2 of AM_(L)18 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYYSTPFT SEQ ID NO: 398 sequence of NO: 238 CDR 3 of AM_(L)18 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSISSNLA SEQ ID NO: 399 sequence of NO: 239 CDR 1 of AM_(L)19 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 400 sequence of NO: 240 CDR 2 of AM_(L)19 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDTWPLT SEQ ID NO: 401 sequence of NO: 241 CDR 3 of AM_(L)19 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGISNYLA SEQ ID NO: 402 sequence of NO: 242 CDR 1 of AM_(L)20 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASTLQS SEQ ID NO: 403 sequence of NO: 243 CDR 2 of AM_(L)20 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QKYNRAPFT SEQ ID NO: 404 sequence of NO: 244 CDR 3 of AM_(L)20 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGISNYLA SEQ ID NO: 405 sequence of NO: 245 CDR 1 of AM_(L)21 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASTLQS SEQ ID NO: 406 sequence of NO: 246 CDR 2 of AM_(L)21 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QKYNRAPFT SEQ ID NO: 407 sequence of NO: 247 CDR 3 of AM_(L)21 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVSSNLA SEQ ID NO: 408 sequence of NO: 248 CDR 1 of AM_(L)22 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID DASTRAA SEQ ID NO: 409 sequence of NO: 249 CDR 2 of AM_(L)22 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYDNWPLT SEQ ID NO: 410 sequence of NO: 250 CDR 3 of AM_(L)22 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQGIINDLG SEQ ID NO: 411 sequence of NO: 251 CDR 1 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 1 Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 412 sequence of NO: 252 CDR 2 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 1 Amino acid SEQ ID LQHNSYPPT SEQ ID NO: 413 sequence of NO: 253 CDR 3 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 1 Amino acid SEQ ID RSSQSLVYSDGHT SEQ ID NO: 414 sequence of NO: 254 CLN CDR 1 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 2 Amino acid SEQ ID KVSNWDS SEQ ID NO: 415 sequence of NO: 255 CDR 2 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 2 Amino acid SEQ ID MQGTHWPLCS SEQ ID NO: 416 sequence of NO: 256 CDR 3 of AM_(L)23 Vl version 2 Amino acid SEQ ID RSSQSLVYSDGHT SEQ ID NO: 417 sequence of NO: 257 CLN CDR 1 of AM_(L)24 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID KVSNWDS SEQ ID NO: 418 sequence of NO: 258 CDR 2 of AM_(L)24 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID MQGTHWPLCS SEQ ID NO: 419 sequence of NO: 259 CDR 3 of AM_(L)24 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQAISIYLA SEQ ID NO: 420 sequence of NO: 260 CDR 1 of AM_(L)25 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID AASSLQS SEQ ID NO: 421 sequence of NO: 261 CDR 2 of AM_(L)25 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYSSYPRT SEQ ID NO: 422 sequence of NO: 262 CDR 3 of AM_(L)25 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID RASQSVYSNLA SEQ ID NO: 423 sequence of NO: 263 CDR 1 of AM_(L)26 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID GASTRAT SEQ ID NO: 424 sequence of NO: 264 CDR 2 of AM_(L)26 Vl Amino acid SEQ ID QQYYNWPWT SEQ ID NO: 425 sequence of NO: 265 CDR 3 of AM_(L)26 Vl

The general structure and properties of CDRs within naturally occurring antibodies have been described in the art. Briefly, in a traditional antibody scaffold, the CDRs are embedded within a framework in the heavy and light chain variable region where they constitute the regions largely responsible for antigen binding and recognition. A variable region comprises at least three heavy or light chain CDRs, see, supra (Kabat et al., 1991, Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, Public Health Service N.I.H., Bethesda, Md.; see also Chothia and Lesk, 1987, J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917; Chothia et al., 1989, Nature 342: 877-883), within a framework region (designated framework regions 1-4, FR1, FR2, FR3, and FR4, by Kabat et al., 1991, supra; see also Chothia and Lesk, 1987, supra). See, infra. The CDRs provided by the present invention, however, may not only be used to define the antigen binding domain of a traditional antibody structure, but may be embedded in a variety of other scaffold structures, as described herein.

Antibodies of the invention can comprise any constant region known in the art. The light chain constant region can be, for example, a kappa- or lambda-type light chain constant region, e.g., a human kappa- or lambda-type light chain constant region. The heavy chain constant region can be, for example, an alpha-, delta-, epsilon-, gamma-, or mu-type heavy chain constant regions, e.g., a human alpha-, delta-, epsilon-, gamma-, or mu-type heavy chain constant region. In one embodiment, the light or heavy chain constant region is a fragment, derivative, variant, or mutein of a naturally occurring constant region.

The CDRs of the invention also include consensus sequences derived from groups of related monoclonal antibodies. The antibodies may be related by both sequence homology and function, as shown in the Examples. As described herein, a “consensus sequence” refers to amino acid sequences having conserved amino acids common among a number of sequences and variable amino acids that vary within given amino acid sequences. The CDR consensus sequences of the invention include CDRs corresponding to each of H-CDR1, H-CDR2, H-CDR3, L-CDR1, L-CDR2 and L-CDR3.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one H-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically bind to IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one H-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and at least one L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least two H-CDR regions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically bind to IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least two L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least two H-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and at least two L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least three H-CDR regions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically bind to IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least three L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least three H-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and at least three L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises a light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:185), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:186), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:187) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:107), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:108), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:109) of antibody AM-1; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:188), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:189), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:190) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:110), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:111), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:112) of antibody AM-2; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:191), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:192), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:193) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:113), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:114), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:115) of antibody AM-3; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:194), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:195), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:196) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:116), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:117), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:118) of antibody AM-4; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:197), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:198), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:199) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:119), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:120), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:121) of antibody AM-5; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:200), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:201), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:202) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:122), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:123), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:124) of antibody AM-6; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:203), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:204), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:205) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:125), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:126), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:127) of antibody AM-7; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:206), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:207), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:208) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:128), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:129), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:130) of antibody AM-8; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:209), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:210), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:211) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:131), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:132), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:133) of antibody AM-9; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:212), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:213), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:214) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:134), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:135), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:136) of antibody AM-10; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:215), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:216), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:217) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:137), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:138), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:139) of antibody AM-11; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:218), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:219), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:220) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:140), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:141), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:142) of antibody AM-12; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:221), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:222), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:223) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:143), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:144), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:145) of antibody AM-13; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:224), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:225), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:226) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:146), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:147), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:148) of antibody AM-14; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:227), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:228), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:229) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:149), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:150), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:151) of antibody AM-15; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:230), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:231), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:232) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:152), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:153), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:154) of antibody AM-16; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:233), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:234), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:235) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:155), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:156), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:157) of antibody AM-17; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:236), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:237), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:238) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:158), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:159), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:160) of antibody AM-18; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:239), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:240), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:241) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:161), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:162), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:163) of antibody AM-19; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:242), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:243), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:244) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:164), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:165), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:166) of antibody AM-20; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:245), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:246), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:247) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:167), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:168), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:169) of antibody AM-21; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:248), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:249), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:250) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:170), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:171), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:172) of antibody AM-22; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:251), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:252), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:253) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:173), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:174), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:175) of antibody AM-23; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:254), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:255), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:256) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:173), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:174), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:175) of antibody AM-23; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:257), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:258), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:259) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:176), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:177), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:178) of antibody AM-24; light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:260), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:261), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:262) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:179), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:180), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:181) of antibody AM-25; or light chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:263), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:264), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:265) and heavy chain CDR1 (SEQ ID NO:182), CDR2 (SEQ ID NO:183), CDR3 (SEQ ID NO:184) of antibody AM-26.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one, two, or three H-CDR regions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184, wherein said H-CDR regions are at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the respective H-CDR. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically bind to IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one, two, or three L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265, wherein said L-CDR regions are at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the respective L-CDR. Other embodiments include antigen binding proteins that specifically binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one, two, or three H-CDR regions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184, wherein said H-CDR regions are at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the respective H-CDR, and comprises at least one, two, or three L-CDR region of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265, wherein said L-CDR regions are at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the respective L-CDR.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises at least one H-CDR region having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and/or at least one L-CDR region having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

In another embodiment, the invention provides an antigen binding protein that binds IL-17RA, wherein said antigen binding protein comprises one, two, or three H-CDR region having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and/or one, two, or three L-CDR region having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

Additional embodiments utilize antigen binding proteins comprising one CDR having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of the sequence selected from the H-CDR regions of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and a L-CDR region having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of any of SEQ ID NOs:185-265 (e.g., the antigen binding protein has two CDR regions, one H-CDR and one L-CDH. A specific embodiment includes antigen binding proteins comprising both a H-CDR3 and a L-CDR3 region.

As will be appreciated by those in the art, for any antigen binding protein comprising more than one CDR from the sequences provided herein, any combination of CDRs independently selected from the CDR in TABLE 1 sequences is useful. Thus, antigen binding proteins comprising one, two, three, four, five, or six independently selected CDRs can be generated. However, as will be appreciated by those in the art, specific embodiments generally utilize combinations of CDRs that are non-repetitive, e.g., antigen binding proteins are generally not made with two H-CDR2 regions, etc.

In some embodiments, antigen binding proteins are generated that comprise no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of a H-CDR3 region and a L-CDR3 region, particularly with the H-CDR3 region being selected from a sequence having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of a H-CDR3 region of any of SEQ ID NOs:107-184 and the L-CDR3 region being selected from a L-CDR3 consensus sequence having no more than one, two, three, four, five, or six amino acid additions, deletions or substitutions of a L-CDR3 region of any of SEQ ID SEQ ID NOs:185-265.

As noted herein, the antigen binding proteins of the present invention comprise a scaffold structure into which the CDR(s) of the invention may be grafted. The genus of IL-17RA antigen binding proteins comprises the subgenus of antibodies, as variously defined herein. Aspects include embodiments wherein the scaffold structure is a traditional, tetrameric antibody structure. Thus, the antigen binding protein combinations described herein include the additional components (framework, J and D regions, constant regions, etc.) that make up a heavy and/or light chain.

Embodiments include the use of human scaffold components. An exemplary embodiment of a VH variable region grafted into a traditional antibody scaffold structure is depicted in SEQ ID NO:427 and an exemplay embodiment of a VL variable region grafted into a traditional antibody scaffold structure is depicted in SEQ ID NO:429. Of course it is understood that any antibody scaffold known in the art may be employed.

In one aspect, the present invention provides antibodies that comprise a light chain variable region selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26 and/or a heavy chain variable region selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26, and fragments, derivatives, muteins, and variants thereof. Antibodies of the invention include, but are not limited to: antibodies comprising AM_(L)1/AM_(H)1 (SEQ ID NO:27/SEQ ID NO:1), AM_(L)2/AM_(H)2 (SEQ ID NO:28/SEQ ID NO:2), AM_(L)3/AM_(H)3 (SEQ ID NO:29/SEQ ID NO:3), AM_(L)4/AM_(H)4 (SEQ ID NO:30/SEQ ID NO:4), AM_(L)5/AM_(H)5 (SEQ ID NO:31/SEQ ID NO:5), AM_(L)6/AM_(H)6 (SEQ ID NO:32/SEQ ID NO:6), AM_(L)7/AM_(H)7 (SEQ ID NO:33/SEQ ID NO:7), AM_(L)8/AM_(H)8 (SEQ ID NO:34/SEQ ID NO:8), AM_(L)9/AM_(H)9 (SEQ ID NO:35/SEQ ID NO:9), AM_(L)10/AM_(H)10 (SEQ ID NO:36/SEQ ID NO:10), AM_(L)11/AM_(H)11 (SEQ ID NO:37/SEQ ID NO:11), AM_(L)12/AM_(H)12 (SEQ ID NO:38/SEQ ID NO:12), AM_(L)13/AM_(H)13 (SEQ ID NO:39/SEQ ID NO:13), AM_(L)14/AM_(H)14 (SEQ ID NO:40/SEQ ID NO:14), AM_(L)15/AM_(H)15 (SEQ ID NO:41/SEQ ID NO:15), AM_(L)16/AM_(H)16 (SEQ ID NO:42/SEQ ID NO:16), AM_(L)17/AM_(H)17 (SEQ ID NO:43/SEQ ID NO:17), AM_(L)18/AM_(H)18 (SEQ ID NO:44/SEQ ID NO:18), AM_(L)19/AM_(H)19 (SEQ ID NO:45/SEQ ID NO:19), AM_(L)20/AM_(H)20 (SEQ ID NO:46/SEQ ID NO:20), AM_(L)21/AM_(H)21 (SEQ ID NO:47/SEQ ID NO:21), AM_(L)22/AM_(H)22 (SEQ ID NO:48/SEQ ID NO:22), AM_(L)23/AM_(H)23 (SEQ ID NO:49 or SEQ ID NO:50/SEQ ID NO:23), AM_(L)24/AM_(H)24 (SEQ ID NO:51/SEQ ID NO:24), AM_(L)25/AM_(H)25 (SEQ ID NO:52/SEQ ID NO:25), AM_(L)26/AM_(H)26 (SEQ ID NO:53/SEQ ID NO:26), as well as IL-17RA-binding fragments thereof and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides an antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising a sequence of amino acids that differs from the sequence of a light chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26 only at 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 residues, wherein each such sequence difference is independently either a deletion, insertion, or substitution of one amino acid residue. In another embodiment, the light-chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the sequence of a light chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26. In another embodiment, the light chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a nucleotide sequence that is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, or 99% identical to a nucleotide sequence that encodes a light chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26. In another embodiment, the light chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the complement of a polynucleotide that encodes a light chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26. In another embodiment, the light chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the complement of a polynucleotide that encodes a light chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26. In another embodiment, the light chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to a complement of a light chain polynucleotide provided in any one of AM_(L)1 through AM_(L)26 polynucleotide sequences (SEQ ID NOs:80-106).

In another embodiment, the present invention provides an antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising a sequence of amino acids that differs from the sequence of a heavy chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26 only at 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 residue(s), wherein each such sequence difference is independently either a deletion, insertion, or substitution of one amino acid residue. In another embodiment, the heavy chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to the sequence of a heavy chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26. In another embodiment, the heavy chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a nucleotide sequence that is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleotide sequence that encodes a heavy chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26. In another embodiment, the heavy chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent or stringent conditions to the complement of a polynucleotide that encodes a heavy chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26. In another embodiment, the heavy chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the complement of a polynucleotide that encodes a heavy chain variable domain selected from the group consisting of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26. In another embodiment, the heavy chain variable domain comprises a sequence of amino acids that is encoded by a polynucleotide that hybridizes under moderately stringent or stringent conditions to a complement of a heavy chain polynucleotide provided in any one of AM_(H)1 through AM_(H)26 polynucleotide sequences (SEQ ID NOs:54-79).

Accordingly, in various embodiments, the antigen binding proteins of the invention comprise the scaffolds of traditional antibodies, including human and monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, diabodies, minibodies, domain antibodies, synthetic antibodies (sometimes referred to herein as “antibody mimetics”), chimeric antibodies, antibody fusions (sometimes referred to as “antibody conjugates”), and fragments of each, respectively. The above described CDRs and combinations of CDRs may be grafted into any of the following scaffolds.

As used herein, the term “antibody” refers to the various forms of monomeric or multimeric proteins comprising one or more polypeptide chains that specifically binds to an antigen, as variously described herein. In certain embodiments, antibodies are produced by recombinant DNA techniques. In additional embodiments, antibodies are produced by enzymatic or chemical cleavage of naturally occurring antibodies. In another aspect, the antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a) a human antibody; b) a humanized antibody; c) a chimeric antibody; d) a monoclonal antibody; e) a polyclonal antibody; f) a recombinant antibody; g) an antigen-binding antibody fragment; h) a single chain antibody; i) a diabody; j) a triabody; k) a tetrabody; l) a Fab fragment; m) a F(ab′)₂ fragment; n) an IgD antibody; o) an IgE antibody; p) an IgM antibody; q) an IgA antibody; r) an IgG1 antibody; s) an IgG2 antibody; t) an IgG3 antibody; and u) an IgG4 antibody.

Traditional antibody structural units typically comprise a tetramer. Each tetramer is typically composed of two identical pairs of polypeptide chains, each pair having one “light” (typically having a molecular weight of about 25 kDa) and one “heavy” chain (typically having a molecular weight of about 50-70 kDa). The amino-terminal portion of each chain includes a variable region of about 100 to 110 or more amino acids primarily responsible for antigen recognition. The carboxy-terminal portion of each chain defines a constant region primarily responsible for effector function. Human light chains are classified as kappa and lambda light chains. Heavy chains are classified as mu, delta, gamma, alpha, or epsilon, and define the antibody's isotype as IgM, IgD, IgG, IgA, and IgE, respectively. IgG has several subclasses, including, but not limited to IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. IgM has subclasses, including, but not limited to, IgM1 and IgM2. Embodiments of the invention include all such classes of antibodies that incorporate the variable domains or the CDRs of the antigen binding proteins, as described herein.

Within light and heavy chains, the variable and constant regions are joined by a “J” region of about twelve (12) or more amino acids, with the heavy chain also including a “D” region of about ten (10) more amino acids. See, generally, Paul, W., ed., 1989, Fundamental Immunology Ch. 7, 2nd ed. Raven Press, N.Y. The variable regions of each light/heavy chain pair form the antibody binding site. Scaffolds of the invention include such regions.

Some naturally occurring antibodies, for example found in camels and llamas, are dimers consisting of two heavy chain and include no light chains. Muldermans et al., 2001, J. Biotechnol. 74:277-302; Desmyter et al., 2001, J. Biol. Chem. 276:26285-26290. Crystallographic studies of a camel antibody have revealed that the CDR3 regions form a surface that interacts with the antigen and thus is critical for antigen binding like in the more typical tetrameric antibodies. The invention encompasses dimeric antibodies consisting of two heavy chains, or fragments thereof, that can bind to and/or inhibit the biological activity of IL-17RA.

The variable regions of the heavy and light chains typically exhibit the same general structure of relatively conserved framework regions (FR) joined by three hypervariable regions, i.e., the complementarity determining regions or CDRs. The CDRs are the hypervariable regions of an antibody (or antigen binding protein, as outlined herein), that are responsible for antigen recognition and binding. The CDRs from the two chains of each pair are aligned by the framework regions, enabling binding to a specific epitope. From N-terminal to C-terminal, both light and heavy chains comprise the domains FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3 and FR4. The assignment of amino acids to each domain is in accordance with the definitions of Kabat Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest. Chothia et al., 1987, J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917; Chothia et al., 1989, Nature 342:878-883. Scaffolds of the invention include such regions.

CDRs constitute the major surface contact points for antigen binding. See, e.g., Chothia and Lesk, 1987, J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917. Further, CDR3 of the light chain and, especially, CDR3 of the heavy chain may constitute the most important determinants in antigen binding within the light and heavy chain variable regions. See, e.g., Chothia and Lesk, 1987, supra; Desiderio et al., 2001, J. Mol. Biol. 310:603-615; Xu and Davis, 2000, Immunity 13:37-45; Desmyter et al., 2001, J. Biol. Chem. 276:26285-26290; and Muyldermans, 2001, J. Biotechnol. 74:277-302. In some antibodies, the heavy chain CDR3 appears to constitute the major area of contact between the antigen and the antibody. Desmyter et al., 2001, supra. In vitro selection schemes in which CDR3 alone is varied can be used to vary the binding properties of an antibody. Muyldermans, 2001, supra; Desiderio et al., 2001, supra.

Naturally occurring antibodies typically include a signal sequence, which directs the antibody into the cellular pathway for protein secretion and which is not present in the mature antibody. A polynucleotide encoding an antibody of the invention may encode a naturally occurring signal sequence or a heterologous signal sequence as described below.

In one embodiment, the antigen binding protein is a monoclonal antibody, comprising from one (1) to six (6) of the depicted CDRs, as outlined herein (see TABLE 1). The antibodies of the invention may be of any type including IgM, IgG (including IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4), IgD, IgA, or IgE antibody. In specific embodiment, the antigen binding protein is an IgG type antibody. In an even more specific embodiment, the antigen binding protein is an IgG2 type antibody.

In some embodiments, for example when the antigen binding protein is an antibody with complete heavy and light chains, the CDRs are all from the same species, e.g., human. Alternatively, for example in embodiments wherein the antigen binding protein contains less than six CDRs from the sequences outlined above, additional CDRs may be either from other species (e.g., murine CDRs), or may be different human CDRs than those depicted in the sequences. For example, human H-CDR3 and L-CDR3 regions from the appropriate sequences identified herein may be used, with H-CDR1, H-CDR2, L-CDR1 and L-CDR2 being optionally selected from alternate species, or different human antibody sequences, or combinations thereof. For example, the CDRs of the invention can replace the CDR regions of commercially relevant chimeric or humanized antibodies.

Specific embodiments utilize scaffold components of the antigen binding proteins that are human components.

In some embodiments, however, the scaffold components can be a mixture from different species. As such, if the antigen binding protein is an antibody, such antibody may be a chimeric antibody and/or a humanized antibody. In general, both “chimeric antibodies” and “humanized antibodies” refer to antibodies that combine regions from more than one species. For example, “chimeric antibodies” traditionally comprise variable region(s) from a mouse (or rat, in some cases) and the constant region(s) from a human.

“Humanized antibodies” generally refer to non-human antibodies that have had the variable-domain framework regions swapped for sequences found in human antibodies. Generally, in a humanized antibody, the entire antibody, except the CDRs, is encoded by a polynucleotide of human origin or is identical to such an antibody except within its CDRs. The CDRs, some or all of which are encoded by nucleic acids originating in a non-human organism, are grafted into the beta-sheet framework of a human antibody variable region to create an antibody, the specificity of which is determined by the engrafted CDRs. The creation of such antibodies is described in, e.g., WO 92/11018, Jones, 1986, Nature 321:522-525, Verhoeyen et al., 1988, Science 239:1534-1536. Humanized antibodies can also be generated using mice with a genetically engineered immune system. Roque et al., 2004, Biotechnol. Prog. 20:639-654. In the present invention, the identified CDRs are human, and thus both humanized and chimeric antibodies in this context include some non-human CDRs; for example, humanized antibodies may be generated that comprise the CDRH3 and CDRL3 regions, with one or more of the other CDR regions being of a different special origin.

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is a multispecific antibody, and notably a bispecific antibody, also sometimes referred to as “diabodies”. These are antibodies that bind to two (or more) different antigens. Diabodies can be manufactured in a variety of ways known in the art (Holliger and Winter, 1993, Current Opinion Biotechnol. 4:446-449), e.g., prepared chemically or from hybrid hybridomas.

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is a minibody. Minibodies are minimized antibody-like proteins comprising a scFv joined to a CH3 domain. Hu et al., 1996, Cancer Res. 56:3055-3061. In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is a domain antibody; see, for example U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,516. Domain antibodies (dAbs) are functional binding domains of antibodies, corresponding to the variable regions of either the heavy (VH) or light (VL) chains of human antibodies dABs have a molecular weight of approximately 13 kDa, or less than one-tenth the size of a full antibody. dABs are well expressed in a variety of hosts including bacterial, yeast, and mammalian cell systems. In addition, dAbs are highly stable and retain activity even after being subjected to harsh conditions, such as freeze-drying or heat denaturation. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,291,158; 6,582,915; 6,593,081; 6,172,197; US Serial No. 2004/0110941; European Patent 0368684; U.S. Pat. No. 6,696,245, WO04/058821, WO04/003019 and WO03/002609.

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is an antibody fragment, that is a fragment of any of the antibodies outlined herein that retain binding specificity to IL-17RA. In various embodiments, the antibody binding proteins comprise, but are not limited to, a F(ab), F(ab′), F(ab′)2, Fv, or a single chain Fv fragments. At a minimum, an antibody, as meant herein, comprises a polypeptide that can bind specifically to IL-17RA comprising all or part of a light or heavy chain variable region, such as one or more CDRs.

Further examples of IL-17RA-binding antibody fragments include, but are not limited to, (i) the Fab fragment consisting of VL, VH, CL and CH1 domains, (ii) the Fd fragment consisting of the VH and CH1 domains, (iii) the Fv fragment consisting of the VL and VH domains of a single antibody; (iv) the dAb fragment (Ward et al., 1989, Nature 341:544-546) which consists of a single variable, (v) isolated CDR regions, (vi) F(ab′)₂ fragments, a bivalent fragment comprising two linked Fab fragments (vii) single chain Fv molecules (scFv), wherein a VH domain and a VL domain are linked by a peptide linker which allows the two domains to associate to form an antigen binding site (Bird et al., 1988, Science 242:423-426, Huston et al., 1988, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 85:5879-5883), bispecific single chain Fv dimers (PCT/US92/09965) and (ix) “diabodies” or “triabodies”, multivalent or multispecific fragments constructed by gene fusion (Tomlinson et. al., 2000, Methods Enzymol. 326:461-479; WO94/13804; Holliger et al., 1993, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 90:6444-6448). The antibody fragments may be modified. For example, the molecules may be stabilized by the incorporation of disulphide bridges linking the VH and VL domains (Reiter et al., 1996, Nature Biotech. 14:1239-1245). Aspects of the invention include embodiments wherein the non-CDR components of these fragments are human sequences.

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is a fully human antibody. In this embodiment, as outlined above, specific structures comprise complete heavy and light chains depicted comprising the CDR regions. Additional embodiments utilize one or more of the CDRs of the invention, with the other CDRs, framework regions, J and D regions, constant regions, etc., coming from other human antibodies. For example, the CDRs of the invention can replace the CDRs of any number of human antibodies, particularly commercially relevant antibodies

Single chain antibodies may be formed by linking heavy and light chain variable domain (Fv region) fragments via an amino acid bridge (short peptide linker), resulting in a single polypeptide chain. Such single-chain Fvs (scFvs) have been prepared by fusing DNA encoding a peptide linker between DNAs encoding the two variable domain polypeptides (V_(L) and V_(H)). The resulting polypeptides can fold back on themselves to form antigen-binding monomers, or they can form multimers (e.g., dimers, trimers, or tetramers), depending on the length of a flexible linker between the two variable domains (Kortt et al., 1997, Prot. Eng. 10:423; Kortt et al., 2001, Biomol. Eng. 18:95-108). By combining different V_(L) and V_(H)-comprising polypeptides, one can form multimeric scFvs that bind to different epitopes (Kriangkum et al., 2001, Biomol. Eng. 18:31-40). Techniques developed for the production of single chain antibodies include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,946,778; Bird, 1988, Science 242:423; Huston et al., 1988, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:5879; Ward et al., 1989, Nature 334:544, de Graaf et al., 2002, Methods Mol Biol. 178:379-87. Single chain antibodies derived from antibodies provided herein (including but not limited to scFvs comprising the variable domain combinations of AM_(L)1/AM_(H)1 (SEQ ID NO:27/SEQ ID NO:1), AM_(L)2/AM_(H)2 (SEQ ID NO:28/SEQ ID NO:2), AM_(L)3/AM_(H)3 (SEQ ID NO:29/SEQ ID NO:3), AM_(L)4/AM_(H)4 (SEQ ID NO:30/SEQ ID NO:4), AM_(L)5/AM_(H)5 (SEQ ID NO:31/SEQ ID NO:5), AM_(L)6/AM_(H)6 (SEQ ID NO:32/SEQ ID NO:6), AM_(L)7/AM_(H)7 (SEQ ID NO:33/SEQ ID NO:7), AM_(L)8/AM_(H)8 (SEQ ID NO:34/SEQ ID NO:8), AM_(L)9/AM_(H)9 (SEQ ID NO:35/SEQ ID NO:9), AM_(L)10/AM_(H)10 (SEQ ID NO:36/SEQ ID NO:10), AM_(L)11/AM_(H)11 (SEQ ID NO:37/SEQ ID NO:11), AM_(L)12/AM_(H)12 (SEQ ID NO:38/SEQ ID NO:12), AM_(L)13/AM_(H)13 (SEQ ID NO:39/SEQ ID NO:13), AM_(L)14/AM_(H)14 (SEQ ID NO:40/SEQ ID NO:14), AM_(L)15/AM_(H)15 (SEQ ID NO:41/SEQ ID NO:15), AM_(L)16/AM_(H)16 (SEQ ID NO:42/SEQ ID NO:16), AM_(L)17/AM_(H)17 (SEQ ID NO:43/SEQ ID NO:17), AM_(L)18/AM_(H)18 (SEQ ID NO:44/SEQ ID NO:18), AM_(L)19/AM_(H)19 (SEQ ID NO:45/SEQ ID NO:19), AM_(L)20/AM_(H)20 (SEQ ID NO:46/SEQ ID NO:20), AM_(L)21/AM_(H)21 (SEQ ID NO:47/SEQ ID NO:21), AM_(L)22/AM_(H)22 (SEQ ID NO:48/SEQ ID NO:22), AM_(L)23/AM_(H)23 (SEQ ID NO:49 or SEQ ID NO:50/SEQ ID NO:23), AM_(L)24/AM_(H)24 (SEQ ID NO:51/SEQ ID NO:24), AM_(L)25/AM_(H)25 (SEQ ID NO:52/SEQ ID NO:25), AM_(L)26/AM_(H)26 (SEQ ID NO:53/SEQ ID NO:26), and combinations thereof are encompassed by the present invention.

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is an antibody fusion protein (sometimes referred to herein as an “antibody conjugate”). The conjugate partner can be proteinaceous or non-proteinaceous; the latter generally being generated using functional groups on the antigen binding protein (see the discussion on covalent modifications of the antigen binding proteins) and on the conjugate partner. For example linkers are known in the art; for example, homo- or hetero-bifunctional linkers as are well known (see, 1994 Pierce Chemical Company catalog, technical section on cross-linkers, pages 155-200, incorporated herein by reference).

In one embodiment, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is an antibody analog, sometimes referred to as “synthetic antibodies.” For example, a variety of recent work utilizes either alternative protein scaffolds or artificial scaffolds with grafted CDRs. Such scaffolds include, but are not limited to, mutations introduced to stabilize the three-dimensional structure of the binding protein as well as wholly synthetic scaffolds consisting for example of biocompatible polymers. See, for example, Korndorfer et al., 2003, Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics, Volume 53, Issue 1:121-129. Roque et al., 2004, Biotechnol. Prog. 20:639-654. In addition, peptide antibody mimetics (“PAMs”) can be used, as well as work based on antibody mimetics utilizing fibronection components as a scaffold.

As it is known in the art, a number of different programs can be used to identify the degree of sequence identity or similarity a protein or nucleic acid has to a known sequence.

By “protein,” as used herein, is meant at least two covalently attached amino acids, which includes proteins, polypeptides, oligopeptides and peptides. In some embodiments, the two or more covalently attached amino acids are attached by a peptide bond. The protein may be made up of naturally occurring amino acids and peptide bonds, for example when the protein is made recombinantly using expression systems and host cells, as outlined below. Alternatively, the protein may include synthetic amino acids (e.g., homophenylalanine, citrulline, ornithine, and norleucine), or peptidomimetic structures, i.e., “peptide or protein analogs”, such as peptoids (see, Simon et al., 1992, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 89:9367, incorporated by reference herein), which can be resistant to proteases or other physiological and/or storage conditions. Such synthetic amino acids may be incorporated in particular when the antigen binding protein is synthesized in vitro by conventional methods well known in the art. In addition, any combination of peptidomimetic, synthetic and naturally occurring residues/structures can be used. “Amino acid” also includes imino acid residues such as proline and hydroxyproline. The amino acid “R group” or “side chain” may be in either the (L)- or the (S)-configuration. In a specific embodiment, the amino acids are in the (L)- or (S)-configuration.

In certain aspects, the invention provides recombinant antigen binding proteins that bind an IL-17RA, in some embodiments a recombinant human IL-17RA or portion thereof. In this context, a “recombinant protein” is a protein made using recombinant techniques using any techniques and methods known in the art, i.e., through the expression of a recombinant nucleic acid as described herein. Methods and techniques for the production of recombinant proteins are well known in the art. Embodiments of the invention include recombinant antigen binding proteins that bind wild-type IL-17RA and variants thereof.

“Consisting essentially of” means that the amino acid sequence can vary by about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15% relative to the recited SEQ ID NO: sequence and still retain biological activity, as described herein.

In some embodiments, the antigen binding proteins of the invention are isolated proteins or substantially pure proteins. An “isolated” protein is unaccompanied by at least some of the material with which it is normally associated in its natural state, for example constituting at least about 5%, or at least about 50% by weight of the total protein in a given sample. It is understood that the isolated protein may constitute from 5 to 99.9% by weight of the total protein content depending on the circumstances. For example, the protein may be made at a significantly higher concentration through the use of an inducible promoter or high expression promoter, such that the protein is made at increased concentration levels. The definition includes the production of an antigen binding protein in a wide variety of organisms and/or host cells that are known in the art.

For amino acid sequences, sequence identity and/or similarity is determined by using standard techniques known in the art, including, but not limited to, the local sequence identity algorithm of Smith and Waterman, 1981, Adv. Appl. Math. 2:482, the sequence identity alignment algorithm of Needleman and Wunsch, 1970, J. Mol. Biol. 48:443, the search for similarity method of Pearson and Lipman, 1988, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 85:2444, computerized implementations of these algorithms (GAP, BESTFIT, FASTA, and TFASTA in the Wisconsin Genetics Software Package, Genetics Computer Group, 575 Science Drive, Madison, Wis.), the Best Fit sequence program described by Devereux et al., 1984, Nucl. Acid Res. 12:387-395, preferably using the default settings, or by inspection. Preferably, percent identity is calculated by FastDB based upon the following parameters: mismatch penalty of 1; gap penalty of 1; gap size penalty of 0.33; and joining penalty of 30, “Current Methods in Sequence Comparison and Analysis,” Macromolecule Sequencing and Synthesis, Selected Methods and Applications, pp 127-149 (1988), Alan R. Liss, Inc. An example of a useful algorithm is PILEUP. PILEUP creates a multiple sequence alignment from a group of related sequences using progressive, pairwise alignments. It can also plot a tree showing the clustering relationships used to create the alignment. PILEUP uses a simplification of the progressive alignment method of Feng & Doolittle, 1987, J. Mol. Evol. 35:351-360; the method is similar to that described by Higgins and Sharp, 1989, CABIOS 5:151-153. Useful PILEUP parameters including a default gap weight of 3.00, a default gap length weight of 0.10, and weighted end gaps.

Another example of a useful algorithm is the BLAST algorithm, described in: Altschul et al., 1990, J. Mol. Biol. 215:403-410; Altschul et al., 1997, Nucleic Acids Res. 25:3389-3402; and Karin et al., 1993, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 90:5873-5787. A particularly useful BLAST program is the WU-BLAST-2 program which was obtained from Altschul et al., 1996, Methods in Enzymology 266:460-480. WU-BLAST-2 uses several search parameters, most of which are set to the default values. The adjustable parameters are set with the following values: overlap span=1, overlap fraction=0.125, word threshold (T)=II. The HSP S and HSP S2 parameters are dynamic values and are established by the program itself depending upon the composition of the particular sequence and composition of the particular database against which the sequence of interest is being searched; however, the values may be adjusted to increase sensitivity.

An additional useful algorithm is gapped BLAST as reported by Altschul et al., 1993, Nucl. Acids Res. 25:3389-3402. Gapped BLAST uses BLOSUM-62 substitution scores; threshold T parameter set to 9; the two-hit method to trigger ungapped extensions, charges gap lengths of k a cost of 10+k; X_(u) set to 16, and X_(g) set to 40 for database search stage and to 67 for the output stage of the algorithms. Gapped alignments are triggered by a score corresponding to about 22 bits.

Generally, the amino acid homology, similarity, or identity between individual variant CDRs are at least 80% to the sequences depicted herein, and more typically with preferably increasing homologies or identities of at least 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, and almost 100%. In a similar manner, “percent (%) nucleic acid sequence identity” with respect to the nucleic acid sequence of the binding proteins identified herein is defined as the percentage of nucleotide residues in a candidate sequence that are identical with the nucleotide residues in the coding sequence of the antigen binding protein. A specific method utilizes the BLASTN module of WU-BLAST-2 set to the default parameters, with overlap span and overlap fraction set to 1 and 0.125, respectively.

Generally, the nucleic acid sequence homology, similarity, or identity between the nucleotide sequences encoding individual variant CDRs and the nucleotide sequences depicted herein are at least 80%, and more typically with preferably increasing homologies or identities of at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%, and almost 100%.

Thus, a “variant CDR” is one with the specified homology, similarity, or identity to the parent CDR of the invention, and shares biological function, including, but not limited to, at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the specificity and/or activity of the parent CDR.

While the site or region for introducing an amino acid sequence variation is predetermined, the mutation per se need not be predetermined. For example, in order to optimize the performance of a mutation at a given site, random mutagenesis may be conducted at the target codon or region and the expressed antigen binding protein CDR variants screened for the optimal combination of desired activity. Techniques for making substitution mutations at predetermined sites in DNA having a known sequence are well known, for example, M13 primer mutagenesis and PCR mutagenesis. Screening of the mutants is done using assays of antigen binding protein activities, such as IL-17RA binding.

Amino acid substitutions are typically of single residues; insertions usually will be on the order of from about one (1) to about twenty (20) amino acid residues, although considerably larger insertions may be tolerated. Deletions range from about one (1) to about twenty (20) amino acid residues, although in some cases deletions may be much larger.

Substitutions, deletions, insertions or any combination thereof may be used to arrive at a final derivative or variant. Generally these changes are done on a few amino acids to minimize the alteration of the molecule, particularly the immunogenicity and specificity of the antigen binding protein. However, larger changes may be tolerated in certain circumstances. Conservative substitutions are generally made in accordance with the following chart depicted as TABLE 2.

TABLE 2 Original Residue Exemplary Substitutions Ala Ser Arg Lys Asn Gln, His Asp Glu Cys Ser Gln Asn Glu Asp Gly Pro His Asn, Gln Ile Leu, Val Leu Ile, Val Lys Arg, Gln, Glu Met Leu, Ile Phe Met, Leu, Tyr Ser Thr Thr Ser Trp Tyr Tyr Trp, Phe Val Ile, Leu

Substantial changes in function or immunological identity are made by selecting substitutions that are less conservative than those shown in TABLE 2. For example, substitutions may be made which more significantly affect: the structure of the polypeptide backbone in the area of the alteration, for example the alpha-helical or beta-sheet structure; the charge or hydrophobicity of the molecule at the target site; or the bulk of the side chain. The substitutions which in general are expected to produce the greatest changes in the polypeptide's properties are those in which (a) a hydrophilic residue, e.g., seryl or threonyl, is substituted for (or by) a hydrophobic residue, e.g., leucyl, isoleucyl, phenylalanyl, valyl or alanyl; (b) a cysteine or proline is substituted for (or by) any other residue; (c) a residue having an electropositive side chain, e.g., lysyl, arginyl, or histidyl, is substituted for (or by) an electronegative residue, e.g., glutamyl or aspartyl; or (d) a residue having a bulky side chain, e.g., phenylalanine, is substituted for (or by) one not having a side chain, e.g., glycine.

The variants typically exhibit the same qualitative biological activity and will elicit the same immune response as the naturally-occurring analogue, although variants also are selected to modify the characteristics of the antigen binding protein proteins as needed. Alternatively, the variant may be designed such that the biological activity of the antigen binding protein is altered. For example, glycosylation sites may be altered or removed as discussed herein.

Other derivatives of IL-17RA antibodies within the scope of this invention include covalent or aggregative conjugates of IL-17RA antibodies, or fragments thereof, with other proteins or polypeptides, such as by expression of recombinant fusion proteins comprising heterologous polypeptides fused to the N-terminus or C-terminus of an IL-17RA antibody polypeptide. For example, the conjugated peptide may be a heterologous signal (or leader) polypeptide, e.g., the yeast alpha-factor leader, or a peptide such as an epitope tag. IL-17RA antibody-containing fusion proteins can comprise peptides added to facilitate purification or identification of the IL-17RA antibody (e.g., poly-His). An IL-17RA antibody polypeptide also can be linked to the FLAG peptide DYKDDDDK (SEQ ID NO:447) as described in Hopp et al., Bio/Technology 6:1204, 1988, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,011,912. The FLAG peptide is highly antigenic and provides an epitope reversibly bound by a specific monoclonal antibody (mAb), enabling rapid assay and facile purification of expressed recombinant protein. Reagents useful for preparing fusion proteins in which the FLAG peptide is fused to a given polypeptide are commercially available (Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.).

Oligomers that contain one or more IL-17RA antibody polypeptides may be employed as IL-17RA antagonists. Oligomers may be in the form of covalently-linked or non-covalently-linked dimers, trimers, or higher oligomers. Oligomers comprising two or more IL-17RA antibody polypeptides are contemplated for use, with one example being a homodimer. Other oligomers include heterodimers, homotrimers, heterotrimers, homotetramers, heterotetramers, etc.

One embodiment is directed to oligomers comprising multiple IL-17RA antibody polypeptides joined via covalent or non-covalent interactions between peptide moieties fused to the IL-17RA antibody polypeptides. Such peptides may be peptide linkers (spacers), or peptides that have the property of promoting oligomerization. Leucine zippers and certain polypeptides derived from antibodies are among the peptides that can promote oligomerization of IL-17RA antibody polypeptides attached thereto, as described in more detail below.

In particular embodiments, the oligomers comprise from two to four IL-17RA antibody polypeptides. The IL-17RA antibody moieties of the oligomer may be in any of the forms described above, e.g., variants or fragments. Preferably, the oligomers comprise IL-17RA antibody polypeptides that have IL-17RA binding activity.

In one embodiment, an oligomer is prepared using polypeptides derived from immunoglobulins. Preparation of fusion proteins comprising certain heterologous polypeptides fused to various portions of antibody-derived polypeptides (including the Fc domain) has been described, e.g., by Ashkenazi et al., 1991, PNAS USA 88:10535; Byrn et al., 1990, Nature 344:677; and Hollenbaugh et al., 1992 “Construction of Immunoglobulin Fusion Proteins”, in Current Protocols in Immunology, Suppl. 4, pages 10.19.1-10.19.11.

One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dimer comprising two fusion proteins created by fusing an IL-17RA binding fragment of an IL-17RA antibody to the Fc region of an antibody. The dimer can be made by, for example, inserting a gene fusion encoding the fusion protein into an appropriate expression vector, expressing the gene fusion in host cells transformed with the recombinant expression vector, and allowing the expressed fusion protein to assemble much like antibody molecules, whereupon interchain disulfide bonds form between the Fc moieties to yield the dimer.

The term “Fc polypeptide” as used herein includes native and mutein forms of polypeptides derived from the Fc region of an antibody. Truncated forms of such polypeptides containing the hinge region that promotes dimerization also are included. Fusion proteins comprising Fc moieties (and oligomers formed therefrom) offer the advantage of facile purification by affinity chromatography over Protein A or Protein G columns.

One suitable Fc polypeptide, described in PCT application WO 93/10151 (hereby incorporated by reference), is a single chain polypeptide extending from the N-terminal hinge region to the native C-terminus of the Fc region of a human IgG antibody. Another useful Fc polypeptide is the Fc mutein described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,035 and in Baum et al., 1994, EMBO J. 13:3992-4001. The amino acid sequence of this mutein is identical to that of the native Fc sequence presented in WO 93/10151, except that amino acid 19 has been changed from Leu to Ala, amino acid 20 has been changed from Leu to Glu, and amino acid 22 has been changed from Gly to Ala. The mutein exhibits reduced affinity for Fc receptors.

In other embodiments, the variable portion of the heavy and/or light chains of an IL-17RA antibody may be substituted for the variable portion of an antibody heavy and/or light chain.

Alternatively, the oligomer is a fusion protein comprising multiple IL-17RA antibody polypeptides, with or without peptide linkers (spacer peptides). Among the suitable peptide linkers are those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,751,180 and 4,935,233.

Another method for preparing oligomeric IL-17RA antibody derivatives involves use of a leucine zipper. Leucine zipper domains are peptides that promote oligomerization of the proteins in which they are found. Leucine zippers were originally identified in several DNA-binding proteins (Landschulz et al., 1988, Science 240:1759), and have since been found in a variety of different proteins. Among the known leucine zippers are naturally occurring peptides and derivatives thereof that dimerize or trimerize. Examples of leucine zipper domains suitable for producing soluble oligomeric proteins are described in PCT application WO 94/10308, and the leucine zipper derived from lung surfactant protein D (SPD) described in Hoppe et al., 1994, FEBS Letters 344:191, hereby incorporated by reference. The use of a modified leucine zipper that allows for stable trimerization of a heterologous protein fused thereto is described in Fanslow et al., 1994, Semin. Immunol. 6:267-78. In one approach, recombinant fusion proteins comprising an IL-17RA antibody fragment or derivative fused to a leucine zipper peptide are expressed in suitable host cells, and the soluble oligomeric IL-17RA antibody fragments or derivatives that form are recovered from the culture supernatant.

Covalent modifications of antigen binding proteins are included within the scope of this invention, and are generally, but not always, done post-translationally. For example, several types of covalent modifications of the antigen binding protein are introduced into the molecule by reacting specific amino acid residues of the antigen binding protein with an organic derivatizing agent that is capable of reacting with selected side chains or the N- or C-terminal residues.

Cysteinyl residues most commonly are reacted with α-haloacetates (and corresponding amines), such as chloroacetic acid or chloroacetamide, to give carboxymethyl or carboxyamidomethyl derivatives. Cysteinyl residues also are derivatized by reaction with bromotrifluoroacetone, α-bromo-β-(5-imidozoyl) propionic acid, chloroacetyl phosphate, N-alkylmaleimides, 3-nitro-2-pyridyl disulfide, methyl 2-pyridyl disulfide, p-chloromercuribenzoate, 2-chloromercuri-4-nitrophenol, or chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole.

Histidyl residues are derivatized by reaction with diethylpyrocarbonate at pH 5.5-7.0 because this agent is relatively specific for the histidyl side chain. Para-bromophenacyl bromide also is useful; the reaction is preferably performed in 0.1M sodium cacodylate at pH 6.0.

Lysinyl and amino terminal residues are reacted with succinic or other carboxylic acid anhydrides. Derivatization with these agents has the effect of reversing the charge of the lysinyl residues. Other suitable reagents for derivatizing alpha-amino-containing residues include imidoesters such as methyl picolinimidate; pyridoxal phosphate; pyridoxal; chloroborohydride; trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid; O-methylisourea; 2,4-pentanedione; and transaminase-catalyzed reaction with glyoxylate.

Arginyl residues are modified by reaction with one or several conventional reagents, among them phenylglyoxal, 2,3-butanedione, 1,2-cyclohexanedione, and ninhydrin. Derivatization of arginine residues requires that the reaction be performed in alkaline conditions because of the high pK_(a) of the guanidine functional group. Furthermore, these reagents may react with the groups of lysine as well as the arginine epsilon-amino group.

The specific modification of tyrosyl residues may be made, with particular interest in introducing spectral labels into tyrosyl residues by reaction with aromatic diazonium compounds or tetranitromethane. Most commonly, N-acetylimidizole and tetranitromethane are used to form O-acetyl tyrosyl species and 3-nitro derivatives, respectively. Tyrosyl residues are iodinated using ¹²⁵I or ¹³¹I to prepare labeled proteins for use in radioimmunoassay, the chloramine T method described above being suitable.

Carboxyl side groups (aspartyl or glutamyl) are selectively modified by reaction with carbodiimides (R′—N═C═N—R′), where R and R′ are optionally different alkyl groups, such as 1-cyclohexyl-3-(2-morpholinyl-4-ethyl)carbodiimide or 1-ethyl-3-(4-azonia-4,4-dimethylpentyl)carbodiimide. Furthermore, aspartyl and glutamyl residues are converted to asparaginyl and glutaminyl residues by reaction with ammonium ions.

Derivatization with bifunctional agents is useful for crosslinking antigen binding proteins to a water-insoluble support matrix or surface for use in a variety of methods. Commonly used crosslinking agents include, e.g., 1,1-bis(diazoacetyl)-2-phenylethane, glutaraldehyde, N-hydroxysuccinimide esters, for example, esters with 4-azidosalicylic acid, homobifunctional imidoesters, including disuccinimidyl esters such as 3,3′-dithiobis(succinimidylpropionate), and bifunctional maleimides such as bis-N-maleimido-1,8-octane. Derivatizing agents such as methyl-3-[(p-azidophenyl)dithio]propioimidate yield photoactivatable intermediates that are capable of forming crosslinks in the presence of light. Alternatively, reactive water-insoluble matrices such as cyanogen bromide-activated carbohydrates and the reactive substrates described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,969,287; 3,691,016; 4,195,128; 4,247,642; 4,229,537; and 4,330,440 are employed for protein immobilization.

Glutaminyl and asparaginyl residues are frequently deamidated to the corresponding glutamyl and aspartyl residues, respectively. Alternatively, these residues are deamidated under mildly acidic conditions. Either form of these residues falls within the scope of this invention.

Other modifications include hydroxylation of proline and lysine, phosphorylation of hydroxyl groups of seryl or threonyl residues, methylation of the α-amino groups of lysine, arginine, and histidine side chains (T. E. Creighton, Proteins: Structure and Molecular Properties, W. H. Freeman & Co., San Francisco, 1983, pp. 79-86), acetylation of the N-terminal amine, and amidation of any C-terminal carboxyl group.

Another type of covalent modification of the antigen binding protein included within the scope of this invention comprises altering the glycosylation pattern of the protein. As is known in the art, glycosylation patterns can depend on both the sequence of the protein (e.g., the presence or absence of particular glycosylation amino acid residues, discussed below), or the host cell or organism in which the protein is produced. Particular expression systems are discussed below.

Glycosylation of polypeptides is typically either N-linked or O-linked. N-linked refers to the attachment of the carbohydrate moiety to the side chain of an asparagine residue. The tri-peptide sequences asparagine-X-serine and asparagine-X-threonine, where X is any amino acid except proline, are the recognition sequences for enzymatic attachment of the carbohydrate moiety to the asparagine side chain. Thus, the presence of either of these tri-peptide sequences in a polypeptide creates a potential glycosylation site. O-linked glycosylation refers to the attachment of one of the sugars N-acetylgalactosamine, galactose, or xylose, to a hydroxyamino acid, most commonly serine or threonine, although 5-hydroxyproline or 5-hydroxylysine may also be used.

Addition of glycosylation sites to the antigen binding protein is conveniently accomplished by altering the amino acid sequence such that it contains one or more of the above-described tri-peptide sequences (for N-linked glycosylation sites). The alteration may also be made by the addition of, or substitution by, one or more serine or threonine residues to the starting sequence (for O-linked glycosylation sites). For ease, the antigen binding protein amino acid sequence is preferably altered through changes at the DNA level, particularly by mutating the DNA encoding the target polypeptide at preselected bases such that codons are generated that will translate into the desired amino acids.

Another means of increasing the number of carbohydrate moieties on the antigen binding protein is by chemical or enzymatic coupling of glycosides to the protein. These procedures are advantageous in that they do not require production of the protein in a host cell that has glycosylation capabilities for N- and O-linked glycosylation. Depending on the coupling mode used, the sugar(s) may be attached to (a) arginine and histidine, (b) free carboxyl groups, (c) free sulfhydryl groups such as those of cysteine, (d) free hydroxyl groups such as those of serine, threonine, or hydroxyproline, (e) aromatic residues such as those of phenylalanine, tyrosine, or tryptophan, or (f) the amide group of glutamine. These methods are described in WO 87/05330 published Sep. 11, 1987, and in Aplin and Wriston, 1981, CRC Crit. Rev. Biochem., pp. 259-306.

Removal of carbohydrate moieties present on the starting antigen binding protein may be accomplished chemically or enzymatically. Chemical deglycosylation requires exposure of the protein to the compound trifluoromethanesulfonic acid, or an equivalent compound. This treatment results in the cleavage of most or all sugars except the linking sugar (N-acetylglucosamine or N-acetylgalactosamine), while leaving the polypeptide intact. Chemical deglycosylation is described by Hakimuddin et al., 1987, Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 259:52 and by Edge et al., 1981, Anal. Biochem. 118:131. Enzymatic cleavage of carbohydrate moieties on polypeptides can be achieved by the use of a variety of endo- and exo-glycosidases as described by Thotakura et al., 1987, Meth. Enzymol. 138:350. Glycosylation at potential glycosylation sites may be prevented by the use of the compound tunicamycin as described by Duskin et al., 1982, J. Biol. Chem. 257:3105. Tunicamycin blocks the formation of protein-N-glycoside linkages.

Another type of covalent modification of the antigen binding protein comprises linking the antigen binding protein to various nonproteinaceous polymers, including, but not limited to, various polyols such as polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol or polyoxyalkylenes, in the manner set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,640,835; 4,496,689; 4,301,144; 4,670,417; 4,791,192 or 4,179,337. In addition, as is known in the art, amino acid substitutions may be made in various positions within the antigen binding protein to facilitate the addition of polymers such as PEG.

In some embodiments, the covalent modification of the antigen binding proteins of the invention comprises the addition of one or more labels.

The term “labelling group” means any detectable label. Examples of suitable labelling groups include, but are not limited to the following: radioisotopes or radionuclides (e.g., ³H, ¹⁴C, ¹⁵N, ³⁵S, ⁹⁰Y, ⁹⁹Tc, ¹¹¹In, ¹²⁵I, ¹³¹I), fluorescent groups (e.g., FITC, rhodamine, lanthanide phosphors), enzymatic groups (e.g., horseradish peroxidase, β-galactosidase, luciferase, alkaline phosphatase), chemiluminescent groups, biotinyl groups, or predetermined polypeptide epitopes recognized by a secondary reporter (e.g., leucine zipper pair sequences, binding sites for secondary antibodies, metal binding domains, epitope tags). In some embodiments, the labelling group is coupled to the antigen binding protein via spacer arms of various lengths to reduce potential steric hindrance. Various methods for labelling proteins are known in the art and may be used in performing the present invention.

In general, labels fall into a variety of classes, depending on the assay in which they are to be detected: a) isotopic labels, which may be radioactive or heavy isotopes; b) magnetic labels (e.g., magnetic particles); c) redox active moieties; d) optical dyes; enzymatic groups (e.g. horseradish peroxidase, β-galactosidase, luciferase, alkaline phosphatase); e) biotinylated groups; and f) predetermined polypeptide epitopes recognized by a secondary reporter (e.g., leucine zipper pair sequences, binding sites for secondary antibodies, metal binding domains, epitope tags, etc.). In some embodiments, the labelling group is coupled to the antigen binding protein via spacer arms of various lengths to reduce potential steric hindrance. Various methods for labelling proteins are known in the art and may be used in performing the present invention.

Specific labels include optical dyes, including, but not limited to, chromophores, phosphors and fluorophores, with the latter being specific in many instances. Fluorophores can be either “small molecule” fluores, or proteinaceous fluores.

By “fluorescent label” is meant any molecule that may be detected via its inherent fluorescent properties. Suitable fluorescent labels include, but are not limited to, fluorescein, rhodamine, tetramethylrhodamine, eosin, erythrosin, coumarin, methyl-coumarins, pyrene, Malacite green, stilbene, Lucifer Yellow, Cascade BlueJ, Texas Red, IAEDANS, EDANS, BODIPY FL, LC Red 640, Cy 5, Cy 5.5, LC Red 705, Oregon green, the Alexa-Fluor dyes (Alexa Fluor 350, Alexa Fluor 430, Alexa Fluor 488, Alexa Fluor 546, Alexa Fluor 568, Alexa Fluor 594, Alexa Fluor 633, Alexa Fluor 660, Alexa Fluor 680), Cascade Blue, Cascade Yellow and R-phycoerythrin (PE) (Molecular Probes, Eugene, Oreg.), FITC, Rhodamine, and Texas Red (Pierce, Rockford, Ill.), Cy5, Cy5.5, Cy7 (Amersham Life Science, Pittsburgh, Pa.). Suitable optical dyes, including fluorophores, are described in Molecular Probes Handbook by Richard P. Haugland, hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

Suitable proteinaceous fluorescent labels also include, but are not limited to, green fluorescent protein, including a Renilla, Ptilosarcus, or Aequorea species of GFP (Chalfie et al., 1994, Science 263:802-805), EGFP (Clontech Laboratories, Inc., Genbank Accession Number U55762), blue fluorescent protein (BFP, Quantum Biotechnologies, Inc. 1801 de Maisonneuve Blvd. West, 8th Floor, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3H 1J9; Stauber, 1998, Biotechniques 24:462-471; Heim et al., 1996, Curr. Biol. 6:178-182), enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP, Clontech Laboratories, Inc.), luciferase (Ichiki et al., 1993, J. Immunol. 150:5408-5417), β galactosidase (Nolan et al., 1988, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 85:2603-2607) and Renilla (WO92/15673, WO95/07463, WO98/14605, WO98/26277, WO99/49019, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,292,658, 5,418,155, 5,683,888, 5,741,668, 5,777,079, 5,804,387, 5,874,304, 5,876,995, 5,925,558). All of the above-cited references are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Polynucleotides Encoding IL-17RA Antigen Binding Proteins

Encompassed within the invention are nucleic acids encoding IL-17RA antigen binding proteins, including antibodies, as defined herein. The polynucleotide sequences for the heavy chain variable regions AM_(H)1-26 are found in SEQ ID NOs:54-79, respectively, and the polynucleotide sequences for the light chain variable regions AM_(L)1-26 are found in SEQ ID NOs:80-106, respectively, with AM_(L)23 having two version, as shown in SEQ ID NO:102 and 103. The SEQ ID NOs for the polynucleotide sequences encoding the H-CDR1, H-CDR2, H-CDR3, L-CDR1, L-CDR2, and L-CDR3 are provided in TABLE 1.

Aspects of the invention include polynucleotide variants (e.g., due to degeneracy) that encode the amino acid sequences described herein.

Nucleotide sequences corresponding to the amino acid sequences described herein, to be used as probes or primers for the isolation of nucleic acids or as query sequences for database searches, can be obtained by “back-translation” from the amino acid sequences, or by identification of regions of amino acid identity with polypeptides for which the coding DNA sequence has been identified. The well-known polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedure can be employed to isolate and amplify a DNA sequence encoding a IL-17RA antigen binding proteins or a desired combination of IL-17RA antigen binding protein polypeptide fragments. Oligonucleotides that define the desired termini of the combination of DNA fragments are employed as 5′ and 3′ primers. The oligonucleotides can additionally contain recognition sites for restriction endonucleases, to facilitate insertion of the amplified combination of DNA fragments into an expression vector. PCR techniques are described in Saiki et al., Science 239:487 (1988); Recombinant DNA Methodology, Wu et al., eds., Academic Press, Inc., San Diego (1989), pp. 189-196; and PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications, Innis et. al., eds., Academic Press, Inc. (1990).

Nucleic acid molecules of the invention include DNA and RNA in both single-stranded and double-stranded form, as well as the corresponding complementary sequences. DNA includes, for example, cDNA, genomic DNA, chemically synthesized DNA, DNA amplified by PCR, and combinations thereof. The nucleic acid molecules of the invention include full-length genes or cDNA molecules as well as a combination of fragments thereof. The nucleic acids of the invention are preferentially derived from human sources, but the invention includes those derived from non-human species, as well.

An “isolated nucleic acid” is a nucleic acid that has been separated from adjacent genetic sequences present in the genome of the organism from which the nucleic acid was isolated, in the case of nucleic acids isolated from naturally-occurring sources. In the case of nucleic acids synthesized enzymatically from a template or chemically, such as PCR products, cDNA molecules, or oligonucleotides for example, it is understood that the nucleic acids resulting from such processes are isolated nucleic acids. An isolated nucleic acid molecule refers to a nucleic acid molecule in the form of a separate fragment or as a component of a larger nucleic acid construct. In one preferred embodiment, the nucleic acids are substantially free from contaminating endogenous material. The nucleic acid molecule has preferably been derived from DNA or RNA isolated at least once in substantially pure form and in a quantity or concentration enabling identification, manipulation, and recovery of its component nucleotide sequences by standard biochemical methods (such as those outlined in Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. (1989)). Such sequences are preferably provided and/or constructed in the form of an open reading frame uninterrupted by internal non-translated sequences, or introns, that are typically present in eukaryotic genes. Sequences of non-translated DNA can be present 5′ or 3′ from an open reading frame, where the same do not interfere with manipulation or expression of the coding region.

The present invention also includes nucleic acids that hybridize under moderately stringent conditions, and more preferably highly stringent conditions, to nucleic acids encoding IL-17RA antigen binding proteins as described herein. The basic parameters affecting the choice of hybridization conditions and guidance for devising suitable conditions are set forth by Sambrook, Fritsch, and Maniatis (1989, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., chapters 9 and 11; and Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, 1995, Ausubel et al., eds., John Wiley & Sons, Inc., sections 2.10 and 6.3-6.4), and can be readily determined by those having ordinary skill in the art based on, for example, the length and/or base composition of the DNA. One way of achieving moderately stringent conditions involves the use of a prewashing solution containing 5×SSC, 0.5% SDS, 1.0 mM EDTA (pH 8.0), hybridization buffer of about 50% formamide, 6×SSC, and a hybridization temperature of about 55 degrees C. (or other similar hybridization solutions, such as one containing about 50% formamide, with a hybridization temperature of about 42 degrees C.), and washing conditions of about 60 degrees C., in 0.5×SSC, 0.1% SDS. Generally, highly stringent conditions are defined as hybridization conditions as above, but with washing at approximately 68 degrees C., 0.2×SSC, 0.1% SDS. SSPE (1×SSPE is 0.15M NaCl, 10 mM NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4, and 1.25 mM EDTA, pH 7.4) can be substituted for SSC (1×SSC is 0.15M NaCl and 15 mM sodium citrate) in the hybridization and wash buffers; washes are performed for 15 minutes after hybridization is complete. It should be understood that the wash temperature and wash salt concentration can be adjusted as necessary to achieve a desired degree of stringency by applying the basic principles that govern hybridization reactions and duplex stability, as known to those skilled in the art and described further below (see, e.g., Sambrook et al., 1989). When hybridizing a nucleic acid to a target nucleic acid of unknown sequence, the hybrid length is assumed to be that of the hybridizing nucleic acid. When nucleic acids of known sequence are hybridized, the hybrid length can be determined by aligning the sequences of the nucleic acids and identifying the region or regions of optimal sequence complementarity. The hybridization temperature for hybrids anticipated to be less than 50 base pairs in length should be 5 to 10.degrees C less than the melting temperature (Tm) of the hybrid, where Tm is determined according to the following equations. For hybrids less than 18 base pairs in length, Tm (degrees C.)=2(# of A+T bases)+4(# of #G+C bases). For hybrids above 18 base pairs in length, Tm (degrees C.)=81.5+16.6(log₁₀ [Na⁺])+0.41(% G+C)−(600/N), where N is the number of bases in the hybrid, and [Na⁺] is the concentration of sodium ions in the hybridization buffer ([Na⁻] for 1×SSC=0.165M). Preferably, each such hybridizing nucleic acid has a length that is at least 15 nucleotides (or more preferably at least 18 nucleotides, or at least 20 nucleotides, or at least 25 nucleotides, or at least 30 nucleotides, or at least 40 nucleotides, or most preferably at least 50 nucleotides), or at least 25% (more preferably at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, and most preferably at least 80%) of the length of the nucleic acid of the present invention to which it hybridizes, and has at least 60% sequence identity (more preferably at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 81%, at least 82%, at least 83%, at least 84%, at least 85%, at least 86%, at least 87%, at least 88%, at least 89%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99%, and most preferably at least 99.5%) with the nucleic acid of the present invention to which it hybridizes, where sequence identity is determined by comparing the sequences of the hybridizing nucleic acids when aligned so as to maximize overlap and identity while minimizing sequence gaps as described in more detail above.

The variants according to the invention are ordinarily prepared by site specific mutagenesis of nucleotides in the DNA encoding the antigen binding protein, using cassette or PCR mutagenesis or other techniques well known in the art, to produce DNA encoding the variant, and thereafter expressing the recombinant DNA in cell culture as outlined herein. However, antigen binding protein fragments comprising variant CDRs having up to about 100-150 residues may be prepared by in vitro synthesis using established techniques. The variants typically exhibit the same qualitative biological activity as the naturally occurring analogue, e.g., binding to IL-17RA and inhibiting signaling, although variants can also be selected which have modified characteristics as will be more fully outlined below.

As will be appreciated by those in the art, due to the degeneracy of the genetic code, an extremely large number of nucleic acids may be made, all of which encode the CDRs (and heavy and light chains or other components of the antigen binding protein) of the present invention. Thus, having identified a particular amino acid sequence, those skilled in the art could make any number of different nucleic acids, by simply modifying the sequence of one or more codons in a way which does not change the amino acid sequence of the encoded protein.

The present invention also provides expression systems and constructs in the form of plasmids, expression vectors, transcription or expression cassettes which comprise at least one polynucleotide as above. In addition, the invention provides host cells comprising such expression systems or constructs.

Typically, expression vectors used in any of the host cells will contain sequences for plasmid maintenance and for cloning and expression of exogenous nucleotide sequences. Such sequences, collectively referred to as “flanking sequences” in certain embodiments will typically include one or more of the following nucleotide sequences: a promoter, one or more enhancer sequences, an origin of replication, a transcriptional termination sequence, a complete intron sequence containing a donor and acceptor splice site, a sequence encoding a leader sequence for polypeptide secretion, a ribosome binding site, a polyadenylation sequence, a polylinker region for inserting the nucleic acid encoding the polypeptide to be expressed, and a selectable marker element. Each of these sequences is discussed below.

Optionally, the vector may contain a “tag”-encoding sequence, i.e., an oligonucleotide molecule located at the 5′ or 3′ end of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein coding sequence; the oligonucleotide sequence encodes polyHis (such as hexaHis), or another “tag” such as FLAG, HA (hemaglutinin influenza virus), or myc, for which commercially available antibodies exist. This tag is typically fused to the polypeptide upon expression of the polypeptide, and can serve as a means for affinity purification or detection of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein from the host cell. Affinity purification can be accomplished, for example, by column chromatography using antibodies against the tag as an affinity matrix. Optionally, the tag can subsequently be removed from the purified IL-17RA antigen binding protein by various means such as using certain peptidases for cleavage.

Flanking sequences may be homologous (i.e., from the same species and/or strain as the host cell), heterologous (i.e., from a species other than the host cell species or strain), hybrid (i.e., a combination of flanking sequences from more than one source), synthetic or native. As such, the source of a flanking sequence may be any prokaryotic or eukaryotic organism, any vertebrate or invertebrate organism, or any plant, provided that the flanking sequence is functional in, and can be activated by, the host cell machinery.

Flanking sequences useful in the vectors of this invention may be obtained by any of several methods well known in the art. Typically, flanking sequences useful herein will have been previously identified by mapping and/or by restriction endonuclease digestion and can thus be isolated from the proper tissue source using the appropriate restriction endonucleases. In some cases, the full nucleotide sequence of a flanking sequence may be known. Here, the flanking sequence may be synthesized using the methods described herein for nucleic acid synthesis or cloning.

Whether all or only a portion of the flanking sequence is known, it may be obtained using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by screening a genomic library with a suitable probe such as an oligonucleotide and/or flanking sequence fragment from the same or another species. Where the flanking sequence is not known, a fragment of DNA containing a flanking sequence may be isolated from a larger piece of DNA that may contain, for example, a coding sequence or even another gene or genes. Isolation may be accomplished by restriction endonuclease digestion to produce the proper DNA fragment followed by isolation using agarose gel purification, Qiagen® column chromatography (Chatsworth, Calif.), or other methods known to the skilled artisan. The selection of suitable enzymes to accomplish this purpose will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

An origin of replication is typically a part of those prokaryotic expression vectors purchased commercially, and the origin aids in the amplification of the vector in a host cell. If the vector of choice does not contain an origin of replication site, one may be chemically synthesized based on a known sequence, and ligated into the vector. For example, the origin of replication from the plasmid pBR322 (New England Biolabs, Beverly, Mass.) is suitable for most gram-negative bacteria, and various viral origins (e.g., SV40, polyoma, adenovirus, vesicular stomatitus virus (VSV), or papillomaviruses such as HPV or BPV) are useful for cloning vectors in mammalian cells. Generally, the origin of replication component is not needed for mammalian expression vectors (for example, the SV40 origin is often used only because it also contains the virus early promoter).

A transcription termination sequence is typically located 3′ to the end of a polypeptide coding region and serves to terminate transcription. Usually, a transcription termination sequence in prokaryotic cells is a G-C rich fragment followed by a poly-T sequence. While the sequence is easily cloned from a library or even purchased commercially as part of a vector, it can also be readily synthesized using methods for nucleic acid synthesis such as those described herein.

A selectable marker gene encodes a protein necessary for the survival and growth of a host cell grown in a selective culture medium. Typical selection marker genes encode proteins that (a) confer resistance to antibiotics or other toxins, e.g., ampicillin, tetracycline, or kanamycin for prokaryotic host cells; (b) complement auxotrophic deficiencies of the cell; or (c) supply critical nutrients not available from complex or defined media. Specific selectable markers are the kanamycin resistance gene, the ampicillin resistance gene, and the tetracycline resistance gene. Advantageously, a neomycin resistance gene may also be used for selection in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic host cells.

Other selectable genes may be used to amplify the gene that will be expressed. Amplification is the process wherein genes that are required for production of a protein critical for growth or cell survival are reiterated in tandem within the chromosomes of successive generations of recombinant cells. Examples of suitable selectable markers for mammalian cells include dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and promoterless thyrnidine kinase genes. Mammalian cell transformants are placed under selection pressure wherein only the transformants are uniquely adapted to survive by virtue of the selectable gene present in the vector. Selection pressure is imposed by culturing the transformed cells under conditions in which the concentration of selection agent in the medium is successively increased, thereby leading to the amplification of both the selectable gene and the DNA that encodes another gene, such as an antigen binding protein antibody that binds to IL-17RA polypeptide. As a result, increased quantities of a polypeptide such as an IL-17RA antigen binding protein are synthesized from the amplified DNA.

A ribosome-binding site is usually necessary for translation initiation of rnRNA and is characterized by a Shine-Dalgarno sequence (prokaryotes) or a Kozak sequence (eukaryotes). The element is typically located 3′ to the promoter and 5′ to the coding sequence of the polypeptide to be expressed.

In some cases, such as where glycosylation is desired in a eukaryotic host cell expression system, one may manipulate the various pre- or prosequences to improve glycosylation or yield. For example, one may alter the peptidase cleavage site of a particular signal peptide, or add prosequences, which also may affect glycosylation. The final protein product may have, in the −1 position (relative to the first amino acid of the mature protein) one or more additional amino acids incident to expression, which may not have been totally removed. For example, the final protein product may have one or two amino acid residues found in the peptidase cleavage site, attached to the amino-terminus. Alternatively, use of some enzyme cleavage sites may result in a slightly truncated form of the desired polypeptide, if the enzyme cuts at such area within the mature polypeptide.

Expression and cloning vectors of the invention will typically contain a promoter that is recognized by the host organism and operably linked to the molecule encoding the IL-17RA antigen binding protein. Promoters are untranscribed sequences located upstream (i.e., 5′) to the start codon of a structural gene (generally within about 100 to 1000 bp) that control transcription of the structural gene. Promoters are conventionally grouped into one of two classes: inducible promoters and constitutive promoters. Inducible promoters initiate increased levels of transcription from DNA under their control in response to some change in culture conditions, such as the presence or absence of a nutrient or a change in temperature. Constitutive promoters, on the other hand, uniformly transcribe gene to which they are operably linked, that is, with little or no control over gene expression. A large number of promoters, recognized by a variety of potential host cells, are well known. A suitable promoter is operably linked to the DNA encoding heavy chain or light chain comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein of the invention by removing the promoter from the source DNA by restriction enzyme digestion and inserting the desired promoter sequence into the vector.

Suitable promoters for use with yeast hosts are also well known in the art. Yeast enhancers are advantageously used with yeast promoters. Suitable promoters for use with mammalian host cells are well known and include, but are not limited to, those obtained from the genomes of viruses such as polyoma virus, fowlpox virus, adenovirus (such as Adenovirus 2), bovine papilloma virus, avian sarcoma virus, cytomegalovirus, retroviruses, hepatitis-B virus and most preferably Simian Virus 40 (SV40). Other suitable mammalian promoters include heterologous mammalian promoters, for example, heat-shock promoters and the actin promoter.

Additional promoters which may be of interest include, but are not limited to: SV40 early promoter (Benoist and Chambon, 1981, Nature 290:304-310); CMV promoter (Thomsen et al., 1984, Proc. Natl. Acad. U.S.A. 81:659-663); the promoter contained in the 3′ long terminal repeat of Rous sarcoma virus (Yamamoto et al., 1980, Cell 22:787-797); herpes thymidine kinase promoter (Wagner et al., 1981, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 78:1444-1445); promoter and regulatory sequences from the metallothionine gene Prinster et al., 1982, Nature 296:39-42); and prokaryotic promoters such as the beta-lactamase promoter (Villa-Kamaroff et al., 1978, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 75:3727-3731); or the tac promoter (DeBoer et al., 1983, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 80:21-25). Also of interest are the following animal transcriptional control regions, which exhibit tissue specificity and have been utilized in transgenic animals: the elastase I gene control region that is active in pancreatic acinar cells (Swift et al., 1984, Cell 38:639-646; Ornitz et al., 1986, Cold Spring Harbor Symp. Quant. Biol. 50:399-409; MacDonald, 1987, Hepatology 7:425-515); the insulin gene control region that is active in pancreatic beta cells (Hanahan, 1985, Nature 315:115-122); the immunoglobulin gene control region that is active in lymphoid cells (Grosschedl et al., 1984, Cell 38:647-658; Adames et al., 1985, Nature 318:533-538; Alexander et al., 1987, Mol. Cell. Biol. 7:1436-1444); the mouse mammary tumor virus control region that is active in testicular, breast, lymphoid and mast cells (Leder et al., 1986, Cell 45:485-495); the albumin gene control region that is active in liver (Pinkert et al., 1987, Genes and Devel. 1:268-276); the alpha-feto-protein gene control region that is active in liver (Krumlauf et al., 1985, Mol. Cell. Biol. 5:1639-1648; Hammer et al., 1987, Science 253:53-58); the alpha 1-antitrypsin gene control region that is active in liver (Kelsey et al., 1987, Genes and Devel. 1:161-171); the beta-globin gene control region that is active in myeloid cells (Mogram et al., 1985, Nature 315:338-340; Kollias et al., 1986, Cell 46:89-94); the myelin basic protein gene control region that is active in oligodendrocyte cells in the brain (Readhead et al., 1987, Cell 48:703-712); the myosin light chain-2 gene control region that is active in skeletal muscle (Sani, 1985, Nature 314:283-286); and the gonadotropic releasing hormone gene control region that is active in the hypothalamus (Mason et al., 1986, Science 234:1372-1378).

An enhancer sequence may be inserted into the vector to increase transcription of DNA encoding light chain or heavy chain comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein of the invention by higher eukaryotes. Enhancers are cis-acting elements of DNA, usually about 10-300 bp in length, that act on the promoter to increase transcription. Enhancers are relatively orientation and position independent, having been found at positions both 5′ and 3′ to the transcription unit. Several enhancer sequences available from mammalian genes are known (e.g., globin, elastase, albumin, alpha-feto-protein and insulin). Typically, however, an enhancer from a virus is used. The SV40 enhancer, the cytomegalovirus early promoter enhancer, the polyoma enhancer, and adenovirus enhancers known in the art are exemplary enhancing elements for the activation of eukaryotic promoters. While an enhancer may be positioned in the vector either 5′ or 3′ to a coding sequence, it is typically located at a site 5′ from the promoter. A sequence encoding an appropriate native or heterologous signal sequence (leader sequence or signal peptide) can be incorporated into an expression vector, to promote extracellular secretion of the antibody. The choice of signal peptide or leader depends on the type of host cells in which the antibody is to be produced, and a heterologous signal sequence can replace the native signal sequence. Examples of signal peptides that are functional in mammalian host cells include the following: the signal sequence for interleukin-7 (IL-7) described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,965,195; the signal sequence for interleukin-2 receptor described in Cosman et 41984, Nature 312:768; the interleukin-4 receptor signal peptide described in EP Patent No. 0367 566; the type I interleukin-1 receptor signal peptide described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,968,607; the type II interleukin-1 receptor signal peptide described in EP Patent No. 0 460 846.

Expression vectors of the invention may be constructed from a starting vector such as a commercially available vector. Such vectors may or may not contain all of the desired flanking sequences. Where one or more of the flanking sequences described herein are not already present in the vector, they may be individually obtained and ligated into the vector. Methods used for obtaining each of the flanking sequences are well known to one skilled in the art.

After the vector has been constructed and a nucleic acid molecule encoding light chain, a heavy chain, or a light chain and a heavy chain comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding sequence has been inserted into the proper site of the vector, the completed vector may be inserted into a suitable host cell for amplification and/or polypeptide expression. The transformation of an expression vector for an IL-17RA antigen binding protein into a selected host cell may be accomplished by well known methods including transfection, infection, calcium phosphate co-precipitation, electroporation, microinjection, lipofection, DEAE-dextran mediated transfection, or other known techniques. The method selected will in part be a function of the type of host cell to be used. These methods and other suitable methods are well known to the skilled artisan, and are set forth, for example, in Sambrook et al., 2001, supra.

A host cell, when cultured under appropriate conditions, synthesizes an IL-17RA antigen binding protein that can subsequently be collected from the culture medium (if the host cell secretes it into the medium) or directly from the host cell producing it (if it is not secreted). The selection of an appropriate host cell will depend upon various factors, such as desired expression levels, polypeptide modifications that are desirable or necessary for activity (such as glycosylation or phosphorylation) and ease of folding into a biologically active molecule. A host cell may be eukaryotic or prokaryotic.

Mammalian cell lines available as hosts for expression are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, immortalized cell lines available from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and any cell lines used in an expression system known in the art can be used to make the recombinant polypeptides of the invention. In general, host cells are transformed with a recombinant expression vector that comprises DNA encoding a desired anti-IL-17RA antibody polypeptide. Among the host cells that may be employed are prokaryotes, yeast or higher eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotes include gram negative or gram positive organisms, for example E. coli or bacilli. Higher eukaryotic cells include insect cells and established cell lines of mammalian origin. Examples of suitable mammalian host cell lines include the COS-7 line of monkey kidney cells (ATCC CRL 1651) (Gluzman et al., 1981, Cell 23:175), L cells, 293 cells, C127 cells, 3T3 cells (ATCC CCL 163), Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, or their derivatives such as Veggie CHO and related cell lines which grow in serum-free media (Rasmussen et al., 1998, Cytotechnology 28: 31), HeLa cells, BHK (ATCC CRL 10) cell lines, and the CVI/EBNA cell line derived from the African green monkey kidney cell line CVI (ATCC CCL 70) as described by McMahan et al., 1991, EMBO J. 10: 2821, human embryonic kidney cells such as 293, 293 EBNA or MSR 293, human epidermal A431 cells, human Co1o205 cells, other transformed primate cell lines, normal diploid cells, cell strains derived from in vitro culture of primary tissue, primary explants, HL-60, U937, HaK or Jurkat cells. Optionally, mammalian cell lines such as HepG2/3B, KB, NIH 3T3 or S49, for example, can be used for expression of the polypeptide when it is desirable to use the polypeptide in various signal transduction or reporter assays. Alternatively, it is possible to produce the polypeptide in lower eukaryotes such as yeast or in prokaryotes such as bacteria. Suitable yeasts include Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Kluyveromyces strains, Candida, or any yeast strain capable of expressing heterologous polypeptides. Suitable bacterial strains include Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhimurium, or any bacterial strain capable of expressing heterologous polypeptides. If the polypeptide is made in yeast or bacteria, it may be desirable to modify the polypeptide produced therein, for example by phosphorylation or glycosylation of the appropriate sites, in order to obtain the functional polypeptide. Such covalent attachments can be accomplished using known chemical or enzymatic methods. The polypeptide can also be produced by operably linking the isolated nucleic acid of the invention to suitable control sequences in one or more insect expression vectors, and employing an insect expression system. Materials and methods for baculovirus/insect cell expression systems are commercially available in kit form from, e.g., Invitrogen, San Diego, Calif., U.S.A. (the MaxBac® kit), and such methods are well known in the art, as described in Summers and Smith, Texas Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin No. 1555 (1987), and Luckow and Summers, Bio/Technology 6:47 (1988). Cell-free translation systems could also be employed to produce polypeptides using RNAs derived from nucleic acid constructs disclosed herein. Appropriate cloning and expression vectors for use with bacterial, fungal, yeast, and mammalian cellular hosts are described by Pouwels et al. (Cloning Vectors: A Laboratory Manual, Elsevier, N.Y., 1985). A host cell that comprises an isolated nucleic acid of the invention, preferably operably linked to at least one expression control sequence, is a “recombinant host cell”.

In certain embodiments, cell lines may be selected through determining which cell lines have high expression levels and constitutively produce antigen binding proteins with IL-17RA binding properties. In another embodiment, a cell line from the B cell lineage that does not make its own antibody but has a capacity to make and secrete a heterologous antibody can be selected.

Use of IL-17RA Antigen Binding Proteins for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Purposes

The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins of the invention can be used in diagnostic assays, e.g., binding assays to detect and/or quantify IL-17RA expressed in a tissue or cell. The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used in research to further investigate the role of IL-17RA in disease. The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used to further investigate the role of IL-17RA in forming homomeric and/or heteromeric receptor complexes and the role of said complexes in disease. The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used to further investigate the role of IL-17RA activation to homomeric and/or heteromeric IL-17 ligand complexes. The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used to further investigate the role of IL-17RA activation to homomeric and/or heteromeric IL-17 ligand complexes and how said homomeric and/or heteromeric IL-17 ligand complexes relate to disease.

The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins of the present invention can be used for the prevention or treatment of diseases or conditions associated with the IL-17A and/or IL-17F activity. A disease or condition associated with IL-17A and/or IL-17F means any disease, condition, or pathology whose onset in a patient is caused or exacerbated by the interaction of IL-17A and/or IL-17F with IL-17RA. The severity of the disease, condition, or pathology can also be increased or decreased by the modulating the interaction of IL-17A and/or IL-17F with IL-17RA or a heterologous complex comprising IL-17RA and IL-17RC.

Antigen binding proteins of the invention that specifically bind to IL-17RA may be used in treatment of IL-17RA mediated diseases in a patient in need thereof. All aspects of the IL-17RA antigen binding proteins described throughout this specification may be used in the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of the various conditions and diseases described herein. In addition, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein of the invention can be used to inhibit IL-17RA from forming a complex with its ligand, e.g., IL-17A and/or IL-17F or any other IL-17 ligand family member that binds IL-17RA or a heterologous complex comprising IL-17RA and IL-17RC, thereby modulating the biological activity of IL-17RA in a cell or tissue. Antigen binding proteins that bind to IL-17RA thus may modulate and/or inhibit interaction with other binding compounds and as such may have therapeutic use in ameliorating IL-17RA mediated diseases. In specific embodiments, IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F from binding IL-17RA, which may result in disruption of the IL-17RA-induced signal transduction cascade.

Increased levels of IL-17A and/or involvement of IL-17A mediated signals in disease pathogenesis have been demonstrated in a variety of conditions and diseases. Kolls and Linden, 2004, supra; Miossec, 2003, P. Arthritis Rheum. 48:594-601); WO2005/063290; Cannetti et al., 2003, J. Immunol. 171:1009-1015; Charles et al., 1999, J. Immunol. 163: 1521-1528; Cunnane et al., 2000, Online J. Rheumatol. 27:58-63; Yoshimoto, 1998, J. Immunol. 161: 3400-3407), (WO2005/063290), (Niederau, 1997, Online NLM), (WO2004/002519), (Tsutsui et al., 2000, supra), (Konishi et al., 2002, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 99:11340-11345), Ziolkowska et al., 2000, supra). (Chabaud, 2001, Arth & Rheumatism, 44:1293). Thus, IL-17RA is said to influence the pathology of these and other diseases or conditions described herein.

As described herein, a surrogate rat anti-mouse IL-17RA antibody inhibits the course of disease and reduces bone and cartilage degradation in both a prophylactic and therapeutic rodent collagen induced arthritis model (see Examples below). As further evidence of the efficacy of interrupting the IL-17A/IL-17RA pathway, IL-17RA knockout mice are resistant to collagen-induced arthritis and IL-17RA antibody treatment is effective in arthritis induced in TNFR knockout mice, showing a TNF independent effect (see Example 6).

Inhibiting IL-17RA using the antigen binding proteins disclosed herein represents a novel and effective mechanism to inhibit the symptoms and pathology of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and in particular inflammation and joint degradation found in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Preclinical data and data from RA patient tissues suggest the potential to provide efficacy in those who failed TNF inhibitor therapy and to confer added benefit in combination with TNF inhibitors, IL-6 inhibitors, and IL-1 inhibitors.

The antigen binding proteins described herein may be used in combination (pre-treatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more TNF inhibitors for the treatment or prevention of the diseases and disorders recited herein, such as but not limited to, all forms of soluble TNF receptors including Etanercept (such as ENBREL®), as well as all forms of monomeric or multimeric p75 and/or p55 TNF receptor molecules and fragments thereof; anti-human TNF antibodies, such as but not limited to, Infliximab (such as REMICADE®), and D2E7 (such as HUMIRA®), and the like. Such TNF inhibitors include compounds and proteins which block in vivo synthesis or extracellular release of TNF. In a specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an IL-17RA antigen binding protein in combination (pre-treatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more of the following TNF inhibitors: TNF binding proteins (soluble TNF receptor type-I and soluble TNF receptor type-II (“sTNFRs”), as defined herein), anti-TNF antibodies, granulocyte colony stimulating factor; thalidomide; BN 50730; tenidap; E 5531; tiapafant PCA 4248; nimesulide; panavir; rolipram; RP 73401; peptide T; MDL 201,449A; (1R,3S)-Cis-1-[9-(2,6-diaminopurinyl)]-3-hydroxy-4-cyclopentene hydrochloride; (1R,3R)-trans-1-(9-(2,6-diamino)purine]-3-acetoxycyclopentane; (1R,3R)-trans-1-[9-adenyl)-3-azidocyclopentane hydrochloride and (1R,3R)-trans-1-(6-hydroxy-purin-9-yl)-3-azidocyclo-pentane. TNF binding proteins are disclosed in the art (EP 308 378, EP 422 339, GB 2 218 101, EP 393 438, WO 90/13575, EP 398 327, EP 412 486, WO 91/03553, EP 418 014, JP 127,800/1991, EP 433 900, U.S. Pat. No. 5,136,021, GB 2 246 569, EP 464 533, WO 92/01002, WO 92/13095, WO 92/16221, EP 512 528, EP 526 905, WO 93/07863, EP 568 928, WO 93/21946, WO 93/19777, EP 417 563, WO 94/06476, and PCT International Application No. PCT/US97/12244).

For example, EP 393 438 and EP 422 339 teach the amino acid and nucleic acid sequences of a soluble TNF receptor type I (also known as “sTNFR-I” or “30 kDa TNF inhibitor”) and a soluble TNF receptor type II (also known as “sTNFR-II” or “40 kDa TNF inhibitor”), collectively termed “sTNFRs”, as well as modified forms thereof (e.g., fragments, functional derivatives and variants). EP 393 438 and EP 422 339 also disclose methods for isolating the genes responsible for coding the inhibitors, cloning the gene in suitable vectors and cell types and expressing the gene to produce the inhibitors. Additionally, polyvalent forms (i.e., molecules comprising more than one active moiety) of sTNFR-I and sTNFR-II have also been disclosed. In one embodiment, the polyvalent form may be constructed by chemically coupling at least one TNF inhibitor and another moiety with any clinically acceptable linker, for example polyethylene glycol (WO 92/16221 and WO 95/34326), by a peptide linker (Neve et al. (1996), Cytokine, 8(5):365-370, by chemically coupling to biotin and then binding to avidin (WO 91/03553) and, finally, by combining chimeric antibody molecules (U.S. Pat. No. 5,116,964, WO 89/09622, WO 91/16437 and EP 315062.

Anti-TNF antibodies include the MAK 195F Fab antibody (Holler et al. (1993), 1st International Symposium on Cytokines in Bone Marrow Transplantation, 147); CDP 571 anti-TNF monoclonal antibody (Rankin et al. (1995), British Journal of Rheumatology, 34:334-342); BAY X 1351 murine anti-tumor necrosis factor monoclonal antibody (Kieft et al. (1995), 7th European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, page 9); CenTNF cA2 anti-TNF monoclonal antibody (Elliott et al. (1994), Lancet, 344:1125-1127 and Elliott et al. (1994), Lancet, 344:1105-1110).

The antigen binding proteins described herein may be used in combination with all forms of IL-1 inhibitors, such as but not limited to, kineret (for example ANAKINRA®). Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) is a human protein that acts as a natural inhibitor of interleukin-1 Interleukin-1 receptor antagonists, as well as the methods of making and methods of using thereof, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,075,222; WO 91/08285; WO 91/17184; AU 9173636; WO 92/16221; WO 93/21946; WO 94/06457; WO 94/21275; FR 2706772; WO 94/21235; DE 4219626; WO 94/20517; WO 96/22793 and WO 97/28828. The proteins include glycosylated as well as non-glycosylated IL-1 receptor antagonists. Specifically, three preferred forms of IL-1ra (IL-1raα, IL-raβ and IL-1rax), each being encoded by the same DNA coding sequence and variants thereof, are disclosed and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,075,222. Methods for producing IL-1 inhibitors, particularly IL-1ras, are also disclosed in the U.S. Pat. No. 5,075,222. An additional class of interleukin-1 inhibitors includes compounds capable of specifically preventing activation of cellular receptors to IL-1. Such compounds include IL-1 binding proteins, such as soluble receptors and monoclonal antibodies. Such compounds also include monoclonal antibodies to the receptors. A further class of interleukin-1 inhibitors includes compounds and proteins that block in vivo synthesis and/or extracellular release of IL-1. Such compounds include agents that affect transcription of IL-1 genes or processing of IL-1 preproteins.

The antigen binding proteins described herein may be used in combination with all forms of CD28 inhibitors, such as but not limited to, abatacept (for example ORENCIA®).

The antigen binding proteins described herein may be used in combination with all forms of IL-6 and/or IL-6 receptor inhibitors, such as but not limited to, abatacept (for example ACTEMRA®).

The antigen binding proteins may be used in combination with one or more cytokines, lymphokines, hematopoietic factor(s), and/or an anti-inflammatory agent.

Treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein can include the use of first line drugs for control of pain and inflammation in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with treatment with one or more of the antigen binding proteins provided herein. These drugs are classified as non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Secondary treatments include corticosteroids, slow acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs), or disease modifying (DM) drugs. Information regarding the following compounds can be found in The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, Sixteenth Edition, Merck, Sharp & Dohme Research Laboratories, Merck & Co., Rahway, N.J. (1992) and in Pharmaprojects, PJB Publications Ltd.

In a specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein and any of one or more NSAIDs for the treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein. NSAIDs owe their anti-inflammatory action, at least in part, to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis (Goodman and Gilman in “The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics,” MacMillan 7th Edition (1985)). NSAIDs can be characterized into at least nine groups: (1) salicylic acid derivatives; (2) propionic acid derivatives; (3) acetic acid derivatives; (4) fenamic acid derivatives; (5) carboxylic acid derivatives; (6) butyric acid derivatives; (7) oxicams; (8) pyrazoles and (9) pyrazolones.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more salicylic acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Such salicylic acid derivatives, prodrug esters and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: acetaminosalol, aloxiprin, aspirin, benorylate, bromosaligenin, calcium acetylsalicylate, choline magnesium trisalicylate, magnesium salicylate, choline salicylate, diflusinal, etersalate, fendosal, gentisic acid, glycol salicylate, imidazole salicylate, lysine acetylsalicylate, mesalamine, morpholine salicylate, 1-naphthyl salicylate, olsalazine, parsalmide, phenyl acetylsalicylate, phenyl salicylate, salacetamide, salicylamide O-acetic acid, salsalate, sodium salicylate and sulfasalazine. Structurally related salicylic acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In an additional specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more propionic acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The propionic acid derivatives, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: alminoprofen, benoxaprofen, bucloxic acid, carprofen, dexindoprofen, fenoprofen, flunoxaprofen, fluprofen, flurbiprofen, furcloprofen, ibuprofen, ibuprofen aluminum, ibuproxam, indoprofen, isoprofen, ketoprofen, loxoprofen, miroprofen, naproxen, naproxen sodium, oxaprozin, piketoprofen, pimeprofen, pirprofen, pranoprofen, protizinic acid, pyridoxiprofen, suprofen, tiaprofenic acid and tioxaprofen. Structurally related propionic acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In yet another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more acetic acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The acetic acid derivatives, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: acemetacin, alclofenac, amfenac, bufexamac, cinmetacin, clopirac, delmetacin, diclofenac potassium, diclofenac sodium, etodolac, felbinac, fenclofenac, fenclorac, fenclozic acid, fentiazac, furofenac, glucametacin, ibufenac, indomethacin, isofezolac, isoxepac, lonazolac, metiazinic acid, oxametacin, oxpinac, pimetacin, proglumetacin, sulindac, talmetacin, tiaramide, tiopinac, tolmetin, tolmetin sodium, zidometacin and zomepirac. Structurally related acetic acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more fenamic acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The fenamic acid derivatives, prodrug esters and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: enfenamic acid, etofenamate, flufenamic acid, isonixin, meclofenamic acid, meclofenamate sodium, medofenamic acid, mefenamic acid, niflumic acid, talniflumate, terofenamate, tolfenamic acid and ufenamate. Structurally related fenamic acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In an additional specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more carboxylic acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The carboxylic acid derivatives, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof which can be used comprise: clidanac, diflunisal, flufenisal, inoridine, ketorolac and tinoridine. Structurally related carboxylic acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In yet another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more butyric acid derivatives, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The butyric acid derivatives, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: bumadizon, butibufen, fenbufen and xenbucin. Structurally related butyric acid derivatives having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more oxicams, prodrug esters, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The oxicams, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: droxicam, enolicam, isoxicam, piroxicam, sudoxicam, tenoxicam and 4-hydroxyl-1,2-benzothiazine 1,1-dioxide 4-(N-phenyl)-carboxamide. Structurally related oxicams having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In still another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more pyrazoles, prodrug esters, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The pyrazoles, prodrug esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof which may be used comprise: difenamizole and epirizole. Structurally related pyrazoles having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In an additional specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment or, concurrent treatment) with any of one or more pyrazolones, prodrug esters, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The pyrazolones, prodrug esters and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof which may be used comprise: apazone, azapropazone, benzpiperylon, feprazone, mofebutazone, morazone, oxyphenbutazone, phenylbutazone, pipebuzone, propylphenazone, ramifenazone, suxibuzone and thiazolinobutazone. Structurally related pyrazalones having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more of the following NSAIDs: ε-acetamidocaproic acid, S-adenosyl-methionine, 3-amino-4-hydroxybutyric acid, amixetrine, anitrazafen, antrafenine, bendazac, bendazac lysinate, benzydamine, beprozin, broperamole, bucolome, bufezolac, ciproquazone, cloximate, dazidamine, deboxamet, detomidine, difenpiramide, difenpyramide, difisalamine, ditazol, emorfazone, fanetizole mesylate, fenflumizole, floctafenine, flumizole, flunixin, fluproquazone, fopirtoline, fosfosal, guaimesal, guaiazolene, isonixirn, lefetamine HCl, leflunomide, lofemizole, lotifazole, lysin clonixinate, meseclazone, nabumetone, nictindole, nimesulide, orgotein, orpanoxin, oxaceprol, oxapadol, paranyline, perisoxal, perisoxal citrate, pifoxime, piproxen, pirazolac, pirfenidone, proquazone, proxazole, thielavin B, tiflamizole, timegadine, tolectin, tolpadol, tryptamid and those designated by company code number such as 480156S, AA861, AD1590, AFP802, AFP860, AI77B, AP504, AU8001, BPPC, BW540C, CHINOIN 127, CN100, EB382, EL508, F1044, FK-506, GV3658, ITF182, KCNTEI6090, KME4, LA2851, MR714, MR897, MY309, 0NO3144, PR823, PV102, PV108, R830, RS2131, SCR152, SH440, SIR133, SPAS510, SQ27239, ST281, SY6001, TA60, TAI-901 (4-benzoyl-1-indancarboxylic acid), TVX2706, U60257, UR2301 and WY41770. Structurally related NSAIDs having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to the NSAIDs are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In still another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more corticosteroids, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof for the treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein, including acute and chronic inflammation such as rheumatic diseases, graft versus host disease and multiple sclerosis. Corticosteroids, prodrug esters and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof include hydrocortisone and compounds which are derived from hydrocortisone, such as 21-acetoxypregnenolone, alclomerasone, algestone, amcinonide, beclomethasone, betamethasone, betamethasone valerate, budesonide, chloroprednisone, clobetasol, clobetasol propionate, clobetasone, clobetasone butyrate, clocortolone, cloprednol, corticosterone, cortisone, cortivazol, deflazacon, desonide, desoximerasone, dexamethasone, diflorasone, diflucortolone, difluprednate, enoxolone, fluazacort, flucloronide, flumethasone, flumethasone pivalate, flucinolone acetonide, flunisolide, fluocinonide, fluorocinolone acetonide, fluocortin butyl, fluocortolone, fluocortolone hexanoate, diflucortolone valerate, fluorometholone, fluperolone acetate, fluprednidene acetate, fluprednisolone, flurandenolide, formocortal, halcinonide, halometasone, halopredone acetate, hydro-cortamate, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, hydro-cortisone butyrate, hydrocortisone phosphate, hydrocortisone 21-sodium succinate, hydrocortisone tebutate, mazipredone, medrysone, meprednisone, methylprednisolone, mometasone furoate, paramethasone, prednicarbate, prednisolone, prednisolone 21-diedryaminoacetate, prednisolone sodium phosphate, prednisolone sodium succinate, prednisolone sodium 21-m-sulfobenzoate, prednisolone sodium 21-stearoglycolate, prednisolone tebutate, prednisolone 21-trimethylacetate, prednisone, prednival, prednylidene, prednylidene 21-diethylaminoacetate, tixocortol, triamcinolone, triamcinolone acetonide, triamcinolone benetonide and triamcinolone hexacetonide. Structurally related corticosteroids having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more slow-acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs) or disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS), prodrug esters, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof for the treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein, including acute and chronic inflammation such as rheumatic diseases, graft versus host disease and multiple sclerosis. SAARDs or DMARDS, prodrug esters and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof comprise: allocupreide sodium, auranofin, aurothioglucose, aurothioglycanide, azathioprine, brequinar sodium, bucillamine, calcium 3-aurothio-2-propanol-1-sulfonate, chlorambucil, chloroquine, clobuzarit, cuproxoline, cyclo-phosphamide, cyclosporin, dapsone, 15-deoxyspergualin, diacerein, glucosamine, gold salts (e.g., cycloquine gold salt, gold sodium thiomalate, gold sodium thiosulfate), hydroxychloroquine, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, hydroxyurea, kebuzone, levamisole, lobenzarit, melittin, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mizoribine, mycophenolate mofetil, myoral, nitrogen mustard, D-penicillamine, pyridinol imidazoles such as SKNF86002 and SB203580, rapamycin, thiols, thymopoietin and vincristine. Structurally related SAARDs or DMARDs having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group.

In another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more COX2 inhibitors, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof for the treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein, including acute and chronic inflammation. Examples of COX2 inhibitors, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof include, for example, celecoxib. Structurally related COX2 inhibitors having similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are also intended to be encompassed by this group. Examples of COX-2 selective inhibitors include but not limited to etoricoxib, valdecoxib, celecoxib, licofelone, lumiracoxib, rofecoxib, and the like.

In still another specific embodiment, the present invention is directed to the use of an antigen binding protein in combination (pretreatment, post-treatment, or concurrent treatment) with any of one or more antimicrobials, prodrug esters or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof for the treatment of the diseases and disorders recited herein, including acute and chronic inflammation. Antimicrobials include, for example, the broad classes of penicillins, cephalosporins and other beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, azoles, quinolones, macrolides, rifamycins, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, lincosamides and polymyxins. The penicillins include, but are not limited to penicillin G, penicillin V, methicillin, nafcillin, oxacillin, cloxacillin, dicloxacillin, floxacillin, ampicillin, ampicillin/sulbactam, amoxicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, hetacillin, cyclacillin, bacampicillin, carbenicillin, carbenicillin indanyl, ticarcillin, ticarcillin/clavulanate, azlocillin, mezlocillin, peperacillin, and mecillinam. The cephalosporins and other beta-lactams include, but are not limited to cephalothin, cephapirin, cephalexin, cephradine, cefazolin, cefadroxil, cefaclor, cefamandole, cefotetan, cefoxitin, ceruroxime, cefonicid, ceforadine, cefixime, cefotaxime, moxalactam, ceftizoxime, cetriaxone, cephoperazone, ceftazidime, imipenem and aztreonam. The aminoglycosides include, but are not limited to streptomycin, gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, netilmicin, kanamycin and neomycin. The azoles include, but are not limited to fluconazole. The quinolones include, but are not limited to nalidixic acid, norfloxacin, enoxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, sparfloxacin and temafloxacin. The macrolides include, but are not limited to erythomycin, spiramycin and azithromycin. The rifamycins include, but are not limited to rifampin. The tetracyclines include, but are not limited to spicycline, chlortetracycline, clomocycline, demeclocycline, deoxycycline, guamecycline, lymecycline, meclocycline, methacycline, minocycline, oxytetracycline, penimepicycline, pipacycline, rolitetracycline, sancycline, senociclin and tetracycline. The sulfonamides include, but are not limited to sulfanilamide, sulfamethoxazole, sulfacetamide, sulfadiazine, sulfisoxazole and co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole). The lincosamides include, but are not limited to clindamycin and lincomycin. The polymyxins (polypeptides) include, but are not limited to polymyxin B and colistin.

The most cited activity of IL-17A in vitro is the induction of neutrophil mobilizing cytokines and chemokines by stromal cells (e.g. GM-CSF, IL6, IL8). These activities are potently enhanced in the presence of TNF (Ruddy et al., 2004). Similarly the biologic activities of IL-17F are also enhanced by TNF co-stimulus. Of particular note with respect to a pathogenic role for IL-17A in cartilage destruction and bone erosion associated with rheumatoid arthritis, IL-17A induces the expression of NO, MMPs, PGE2 and RANKL and plays a role in antigen specific T and B cell activation (Kolls and Linden, 2004, supra; Lubberts et al., 2005, Arthritis. Res. Ther. 7:29-37). Therefore, the antigen binding proteins may be used to inhibit the IL-17A and/or IL-17F/IL-17RA pathway and subsequent production of NO, MMPs, PGE2 and/or RANKL and treat diseases associated with the IL-17A and/or IL-17F upregulation of NO, MMPs, PGE2 and/or RANKL, as well as other proinflammatory mediators described herein.

In addition to the presence of elevated levels of IL-17A in the synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis patients, several lines of evidence suggest that IL-17A is a key pathogenic cytokine in arthritis. First, administration of IL-17A to the joints of mice exacerbates the symptoms of collagen-induced arthritis (Lubberts et al., 2003, J. Immunol. 170:2655-2662). Second, soluble IL-17RA.Fc inhibits collagen breakdown in human RA synovial and bone explant cultures and attenuates the symptoms in collagen induced arthritis in the mouse (Chabaud and Miossec, 2001, Arthritis Rheum. 44:1293-1303) (Lubberts et al., 2001, J. Immunol. 167:1004-1013)). As predicted from the low affinity interaction between IL-17F and IL-17R, IL-17R-Fc does not neutralize the activity of IL-17F and so these effects are specific to IL-17A antagonism. Third, mice lacking IL-17A are resistant to IL-1-induced arthritis and have suppressed collagen-induced arthritis (Nakae et al., 2003a, J. Immunol. 171:6173-6177; Nakae et al., 2003b, supra). These data indicate that IL-17A signaling through IL-17RA is an important mediator of inflammation and joint damage in arthritis. The antigen binding proteins may be used to inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F/IL-17RA activity and thereby reduce the inflammation and joint damage in arthritis.

In rheumatoid arthritis, elevated levels of mature IL-17A have been demonstrated in patient sera and synovial fluid. In some studies, IL-17A levels were shown to correlate with disease activity and response to disease modifying treatment. Extremely elevated serum levels of IL-17A have consistently been measured in systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and the closely related Adult-Onset Still's Disease. WO2005/063290; Cannetti et al., 2003, J. Immunol. 171:1009-1015; Charles et al., 1999, J. Immunol. 163: 1521-1528; Cunnane et al., 2000, Online J. Rheumatol. 27:58-63; Yoshimoto, 1998, J. Immunol. 161: 3400-3407. The antigen binding proteins may be used to inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F/IL-17RA activity and thereby treat systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Adult-Onset Still's Disease.

Various other autoimmune diseases have been associated with increased levels of IL-17A either in diseased tissue or in the serum. These include Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, atopic dermatitis, myasthenia gravis, type I diabetes, and sarcoidosis. IL-17A may also be involved in asthma and GvHD. The antigen binding proteins taught herein may be used to reduce the effects of the IL-17A and/or IL-17F/IL-17RA pathway in these diseases.

The antigen binding proteins may be used to reduce IL-17RA activity, comprising administering an antigen binding protein. The present invention is also directed to methods of inhibiting binding and/or signaling of IL-17A and/or IL-17F to IL-17RA comprising providing the antigen binding protein of the invention to IL-17RA. In certain embodiments, the antigen binding protein inhibits binding and/or signaling of IL-17A and IL-17F to IL-17RA. In additional embodiments, the antigen binding protein inhibits binding and/or signaling of IL-17A but not IL-17F to IL-17RA. In other embodiments, the antigen binding protein inhibits binding and/or signaling of IL-17F and not IL-17A to IL-17RA.

The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used in treating disease states associated with IL-17RA activity, comprising administering an antigen binding protein. Disease states associated with IL-17RA activity includes, but is not limited to, the consequences, symptoms, and/or the pathology associated with IL-17RA activity. The antigen binding proteins may be used to inhibit the production of one or more of an inflammatory cytokine, chemokine, matrix metalloproteinase, or other molecule associated with IL-17RA activation, comprising administering an antigen binding protein. The antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting production of molecules such as but is not limited to: IL-6, IL-8, CXCL1, CXCL2, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, IL-1β, TNFα, RANK-L, LIF, PGE2, IL-12, MMPs (such as but not limited to MMP3 and MMP9), GROα, NO, and/or C-telopeptide and the like, comprising administering an antigen binding protein. The antigen binding proteins inhibit proinflammatory and proautoimmune immune responses and may be used to treat diseases associated with activity of the IL-17A and/or IL-17F/IL-17RA pathway.

Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and partially or fully inhibit IL-17RA from forming either a homomeric or heteromeric functional receptor complex, such as, but not limited to IL-17RA/IL-17RC complex and do not necessarily inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F or an IL-17A/IL-17F heteromer from binding to IL-17RA or a IL-17RA heteromeric receptor complex. Thus, disease states associated with IL-17RC are also associated with IL-17RA due to the fact that IL-17RC cannot signal without IL-17RA. For example, see You, Z., et al., Cancer Res., 2006 Jan. 1; 66(1):175-83 and You, Z., et al., Neoplasia, 2007 June; 9(6):464-70.

The IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of treating IL-17RA associated disease (i.e., disease states), comprising administering an IL-17RA antigen binding protein. The IL-17RA antigen binding protein may be used to treat diseases including, but are not limited to, inflammation, autoimmune disease, cartilage inflammation, and/or bone degradation, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile enteropathic arthritis, juvenile reactive arthritis, juvenile Reter's Syndrome, SEA Syndrome (Seronegativity, Enthesopathy, Arthropathy Syndrome), juvenile dermatomyositis, juvenile psoriatic arthritis, juvenile scleroderma, juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile vasculitis, pauciarticular rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular rheumatoid arthritis, systemic onset rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, enteropathic arthritis, reactive arthritis, Reter's Syndrome, SEA Syndrome (Seronegativity, Enthesopathy, Arthropathy Syndrome), dermatomyositis, psoriatic arthritis, scleroderma, vasculitis, myolitis, polymyolitis, dermatomyolitis, osteoarthritis, polyarteritis nodossa, Wegener's granulomatosis, arteritis, ploymyalgia rheumatica, sarcoidosis, scleroderma, sclerosis, primary biliary sclerosis, sclerosing cholangitis, Sjogren's syndrome, psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, atherosclerosis, lupus, Still's disease, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), myasthenia gravis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, multiple schlerosis (MS), asthma, COPD, Guillain-Barre disease, Type I diabetes mellitus, Graves' disease, Addison's disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, autoimmune hepatitis, GVHD, and the like.

Chronic viral hepatitis affects over 500 million people worldwide, including approximately 10 million in the U.S. and Europe with chronic hepatitis C infections. A significant proportion of chronic hepatitis patients develop progressive liver fibrosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. While viral hepatitis vaccines are available or in development, current therapy for infected individuals relies on long courses of the combination of antiviral drugs and interferon-alpha (INF-α). INF-α is thought to be beneficial in treating viral hepatitis through its proven antiviral immunological activities and antiproliferative effects on fibroblasts, but the duration and level of its use is limited by severe side effects.

Recent data describes how INF-α may be directly apoptotic for Th17 cells (American Association for Immunologists, abstract no. 42.8, May 12-16, 2006, Boston). Th17 cells are a distinct subset of CD4+ T-cells responsible for producing IL-17A and IL-17F in response to IL-23 (Harrington, et al., Nature Imm, 2005 vol. 6, no. 11, 1123-1132 and Park, et al., Nature Imm, 2005 vol. 6, no. 11, 1133-1141). We believe this suggests a new mechanism of action for INF-α in chronic viral hepatitis that does not involve direct action of INF-α on virus or fibroblasts, but indirect actions on Th17 cells. Furthermore, it has recently been discovered that Tumor Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β) and/or IL-6, (see for example, Kimera, A., et al., PNAS U.S.A., 2007 Jul. 17; 104(29):12099-104), both pro-fibrotic cytokine, also induces the development of TH17 cells by upregulating IL-23 receptor expression and thereby conferring responsiveness to IL-23 ((Mangan, et al., Nature, 2006 vol. 441 no. 11, 231-234). Responsiveness to IL-23 induces the differentiation of naïve CD4+ T-cells into TH17 cells. As mentioned above, the TH17 cells are responsible for releasing IL-17A and IL-17F, and IL-17A is known to have various stimulatory effects on fibroblasts in a number of tissues and organs. Taken together, we believe that inhibition of the IL-17RA IL-17A/IL-17F pathway may offer a therapeutic benefit in the progressive fibrosis of chronic viral hepatitis.

An added benefit of inhibiting the IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F pathway in the treatment of viral hepatitis is that one may reduce the dosage of INF-α given to the patient and consequently limit the deleterious side effects associated with INF-α therapy. A further benefit of inhibiting the IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F pathway in the treatment of viral hepatitis is the possibility of achieving a synergistic therapeutic effect with INF-α therapy in combination with IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F antagonist therapy, or other antagonists as described in more detail below.

Therefore, aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of treating the pathology associated with viral hepatitis by inhibiting the interaction between IL-17RA and IL-17A and/or IL-17F. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of inhibiting fibrosis by inhibiting the interaction between IL-17RA and IL-17A and/or IL-17F. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of treating fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis by inhibiting the interaction between IL-17RA and IL-17A and/or IL-17F. Antagonists of the IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F pathway may be used to inhibit the interaction between IL-17RA and IL-17A and/or IL-17F. Antagonists of the IL-17RA-IL-17A pathway include the IL-17RA antigen binding proteins described herein, as well as IL-17RA proteins (as well as biologically active fragments and fusion proteins thereof, such as IL-17RA-Fc fusion proteins), as well as antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-17A and inhibit IL-17A from activating IL-17RA, as well as antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-17F and inhibit IL-17F from activating IL-17RA.

Additional aspects are drawn to methods of treating the pathology associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the IL-23-IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of inhibiting fibrosis by antagonizing the IL-23-IL-23R pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of treating fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the IL-23-IL-23R pathway. By antagonizing the IL-23-IL-23R pathway, one prevents the IL-23-induced differentiation of the TH17 cells and thereby ultimately limit the amount of circulating IL-17A and IL-17F, which may reduce the pathology associated with viral hepatitis. Antagonists to the IL-23-IL-23R pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-23 and block IL-23 from activating IL-23R. Additional antagonists to IL-23-IL-23R pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-23R and block IL-23 from activating IL-23R. Additional antagonists to IL-23-IL-23R pathway include IL-23R proteins, as well as biologically active fragments and fusion proteins thereof, such as IL-23R-Fc fusion proteins, that bind IL-23 and block IL-23 from activating IL-23R.

Additional aspects are drawn to methods of treating the pathology associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of inhibiting fibrosis by antagonizing the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of treating fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway. By antagonizing the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway, one prevents the TGF-β-induced development of the TH17 cells and thereby ultimately limit the amount of circulating IL-17A and IL-17F, which may reduce the pathology associated with viral hepatitis. Antagonists to the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to TGF-β and block TGF-β from activating TGF-βRI and/or TGF-βRII. Additional antagonists to the TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to TGF-βRI or TGF-βRII and block TGF-β from activating TGF-βRI or TGF-βRII.

Additional aspects are drawn to methods of treating the pathology associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the IL-6-IL-6R pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of inhibiting fibrosis by antagonizing the IL-6-IL-6R pathway. Further aspects of the invention are drawn to methods of treating fibrosis associated with viral hepatitis by antagonizing the IL-6-IL-6R pathway. By antagonizing the IL-6-IL-6R pathway, one may reduce the pathology associated with viral hepatitis. Antagonists to the IL-6-IL-6R pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-6 and block IL-6 from activating IL-6R. Additional antagonists to the IL-6-IL-6R pathway include antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies and biologically active fragments thereof, that bind to IL-6R and block IL-6 from activating IL-6R.

Further aspects include combination therapy using the antagonists of the IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F pathway, IL-23-IL-23R pathway, TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway, and/or the IL-6-IL-6R pathway mentioned above in combination with each other, as well as in combination with art-recognized hepatitis therapies, such as but not limited to, interferon, and in particular INF-α. All permutations of these combinations are envisioned.

Further aspects include combination therapy using the antagonists of the IL-17RA-IL-17A/IL-17F pathway, IL-23-IL-23R pathway, TGF-β-TGF-βRI/TGF-βRII pathway, and/or the IL-6-IL-6R pathway mentioned above in combination with each other, as well as in combination with art-recognized hepatitis therapies, such as but not limited to, interferon, and in particular INF-α, as well as with antiviral agents, such as but not limited to Adefovir dipivoxil, acyclic analogues of deoxyadenosine monophosphate (Adefovir, Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), (−) enantiomer of the deoxycytidine analogue 2′-deoxy-3′-thiacytidine (Lamivudine), carbocyclic deoxyguanosine analogues (Entecavir), L-nucleosides (β-L-2′-Deoxythymidine, β-L-2′-deoxycytidine, and β-L-2′-deoxyadenosine), [(−)-β-2′,3′-dideoxy-5-fluoro-3′-thiacytidine] (Emtricitabine), 1-β-2,6-Diaminopurine dioxalane (DAPD, amdoxovir), 2′-Fluoro-5-methyl-B-L-arabinofuranosyluridine (L-FMAU, clevudine), Famciclovir, and/or Penciclovir. All permutations of these combinations are envisioned.

Diagnostic Methods

The antigen binding proteins of the invention can be used for diagnostic purposes to detect, diagnose, or monitor diseases and/or conditions associated with IL-17A or IL-17RA. The invention provides for the detection of the presence of IL-17RA in a sample using classical immunohistological methods known to those of skill in the art (e.g., Tijssen, 1993, Practice and Theory of Enzyme Immunoassays, vol 15 (Eds R. H. Burdon and P. H. van Knippenberg, Elsevier, Amsterdam); Zola, 1987, Monoclonal Antibodies: A Manual of Techniques, pp. 147-158 (CRC Press, Inc.); Jalkanen et al., 1985, J. Cell. Biol. 101:976-985; Jalkanen et al., 1987, J. Cell Biol. 105:3087-3096). The detection of IL-17RA can be performed in vivo or in vitro.

Diagnostic applications provided herein include use of the antigen binding proteins to detect expression of IL-17RA and binding of the ligands to IL-17RA. Examples of methods useful in the detection of the presence of IL-17RA include immunoassays, such as the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the radioimmunoassay (RIA).

For diagnostic applications, the antigen binding protein typically will be labeled with a detectable labeling group. Suitable labeling groups include, but are not limited to, the following: radioisotopes or radionuclides (e.g., ³H, ¹⁴C, ¹⁵N, ³⁵S, ⁹⁰Y, ⁹⁹Tc, ¹¹¹In, ¹²⁵I, ¹³¹I), fluorescent groups (e.g., FITC, rhodamine, lanthanide phosphors), enzymatic groups (e.g., horseradish peroxidase, β-galactosidase, luciferase, alkaline phosphatase), chemiluminescent groups, biotinyl groups, or predetermined polypeptide epitopes recognized by a secondary reporter (e.g., leucine zipper pair sequences, binding sites for secondary antibodies, metal binding domains, epitope tags). In some embodiments, the labelling group is coupled to the antigen binding protein via spacer arms of various lengths to reduce potential steric hindrance. Various methods for labelling proteins are known in the art and may be used in performing the present invention.

One aspect of the invention provides for identifying a cell or cells that express IL-17RA. In a specific embodiment, the antigen binding protein is labeled with a labeling group and the binding of the labeled antigen binding protein to IL-17RA is detected. In a further specific embodiment, the binding of the antigen binding protein to IL-17RA detected in vivo. In a further specific embodiment, the antigen binding protein-IL-17RA is isolated and measured using techniques known in the art. See, for example, Harlow and Lane, 1988, Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual, New York: Cold Spring Harbor (ed. 1991 and periodic supplements); John E. Coligan, ed., 1993, Current Protocols In Immunology New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Another aspect of the invention provides for detecting the presence of a test molecule that competes for binding to IL-17RA with the antigen binding proteins of the invention. An example of one such assay would involve detecting the amount of free antigen binding protein in a solution containing an amount of IL-17RA in the presence or absence of the test molecule. An increase in the amount of free antigen binding protein (i.e., the antigen binding protein not bound to IL-17RA) would indicate that the test molecule is capable of competing for IL-17RA binding with the antigen binding protein. In one embodiment, the antigen binding protein is labeled with a labeling group. Alternatively, the test molecule is labeled and the amount of free test molecule is monitored in the presence and absence of an antigen binding protein.

Aspects of the invention include the use of the IL-17RA antigen binding proteins in in vitro assays for research purposes, such as to inhibit production of molecules such as but is not limited to: IL-6, IL-8, CXCL1, CXCL2, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, IL-1β, TNFα, RANK-L, LIF, PGE2, IL-12, MMPs (such as but not limited to MMP3 and MMP9), GROα, NO, and/or C-telopeptide and the like. Antibodies directed against an IL-17RA can be used, for example, in purifying IL-17RA proteins by immunoaffinity chromatography.

Pharmaceutical Formulations, Routes of Administration

In some embodiments, the invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effective amount of one or a plurality of the antigen binding proteins of the invention together with a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, carrier, solubilizer, emulsifier, preservative, and/or adjuvant. In addition, the invention provides methods of treating a patient by administering such pharmaceutical composition. The term “patient” includes human and animal subjects.

Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used to reduce IL-17RA activity. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used in treating the consequences, symptoms, and/or the pathology associated with IL-17RA activity. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting binding and/or signaling of IL-17A and/or IL-17F to IL-17RA comprising providing the antigen binding protein of the invention to IL-17RA. In certain embodiments, the antigen binding protein inhibits binding and/or signaling of IL-17A and IL-17F to IL-17RA. In additional embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting binding and/or signaling of IL-17A but not IL-17F to IL-17RA. In other embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting binding and/or signaling of IL-17F and not IL-17A to IL-17RA. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F from binding and activating IL-17RA, or a heteromeric complex of IL-17RA and IL-17RC. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and inhibit an IL-17A/IL-17F heteromer from binding and activating IL-17RA, or a heteromeric complex of IL-17RA and IL-17RC. Throughout the specification, when reference is made to inhibiting IL-17A and/or IL-17F, it is understood that this also includes inhibiting heteromers of IL-17A and IL-17F. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and partially or fully inhibit IL-17RA from forming either a homomeric or heteromeric functional receptor complex, such as, but not limited to IL-17RA-IL-17RC complex. Aspects of the invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human IL-17RA and partially or fully inhibit IL-17RA from forming either a homomeric or heteromeric functional receptor complex, such as, but not limited to IL-17RA/IL-17RC complex and do not necessarily inhibit IL-17A and/or IL-17F or an IL-17A/IL-17F heteromer from binding to IL-17RA or a IL-17RA heteromeric receptor complex.

Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more IL-17RA antigen binding proteins described herein may be used in methods of treating the consequences, symptoms, and/or the pathology associated with IL-17RA activity. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting the production of one or more of an inflammatory cytokine, chemokine, matrix metalloproteinase, or other molecule associated with IL-17RA activation, comprising administering an IL-17RA antigen binding protein. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more antigen binding proteins may be used in methods of inhibiting production of IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, NO, MMPs, PGE2 RANKL, and/or C-telopeptide, and the like.

Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more IL-17RA antigen binding proteins may be used to treat diseases and conditions including, but are not limited to, inflammation, autoimmune disease, cartilage inflammation, and/or bone degradation, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile enteropathic arthritis, juvenile reactive arthritis, juvenile Reter's Syndrome, SEA Syndrome (Seronegativity, Enthesopathy, Arthropathy Syndrome), juvenile dermatomyositis, juvenile psoriatic arthritis, juvenile scleroderma, juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile vasculitis, pauciarticular rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular rheumatoid arthritis, systemic onset rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, enteropathic arthritis, reactive arthritis, Reter's Syndrome, SEA Syndrome (Seronegativity, Enthesopathy, Arthropathy Syndrome), dermatomyositis, psoriatic arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, myolitis, polymyolitis, dermatomyolitis, osteoarthritis, polyarteritis nodossa, Wegener's granulomatosis, arteritis, ploymyalgia rheumatica, sarcoidosis, scleroderma, sclerosis, primary biliary sclerosis, sclerosing cholangitis, Sjogren's syndrome, psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, atherosclerosis, lupus, Still's disease, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), myasthenia gravis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, multiple schlerosis (MS), asthma, COPD, Guillain-Barre disease, Type I diabetes mellitus, Graves' disease, Addison's disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, autoimmune hepatitis, GVHD, and the like

Preferably, acceptable formulation materials are nontoxic to recipients at the dosages and concentrations employed. In specific embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effective amount of IL-17RA antigen binding proteins are provided.

In certain embodiments, acceptable formulation materials preferably are nontoxic to recipients at the dosages and concentrations employed. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition may contain formulation materials for modifying, maintaining or preserving, for example, the pH, osmolarity, viscosity, clarity, color, isotonicity, odor, sterility, stability, rate of dissolution or release, adsorption or penetration of the composition. In such embodiments, suitable formulation materials include, but are not limited to, amino acids (such as glycine, glutamine, asparagine, arginine or lysine); antimicrobials; antioxidants (such as ascorbic acid, sodium sulfite or sodium hydrogen-sulfite); buffers (such as borate, bicarbonate, Tris-HCl, citrates, phosphates or other organic acids); bulking agents (such as mannitol or glycine); chelating agents (such as ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)); complexing agents (such as caffeine, polyvinylpyrrolidone, beta-cyclodextrin or hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin); fillers; monosaccharides; disaccharides; and other carbohydrates (such as glucose, mannose or dextrins); proteins (such as serum albumin, gelatin or immunoglobulins); coloring, flavoring and diluting agents; emulsifying agents; hydrophilic polymers (such as polyvinylpyrrolidone); low molecular weight polypeptides; salt-forming counterions (such as sodium); preservatives (such as benzalkonium chloride, benzoic acid, salicylic acid, thimerosal, phenethyl alcohol, methylparaben, propylparaben, chlorhexidine, sorbic acid or hydrogen peroxide); solvents (such as glycerin, propylene glycol or polyethylene glycol); sugar alcohols (such as mannitol or sorbitol); suspending agents; surfactants or wetting agents (such as pluronics, PEG, sorbitan esters, polysorbates such as polysorbate 20, polysorbate, triton, tromethamine, lecithin, cholesterol, tyloxapal); stability enhancing agents (such as sucrose or sorbitol); tonicity enhancing agents (such as alkali metal halides, preferably sodium or potassium chloride, mannitol sorbitol); delivery vehicles; diluents; excipients and/or pharmaceutical adjuvants. See, REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, 18″ Edition, (A. R. Genrmo, ed.), 1990, Mack Publishing Company.

In certain embodiments, the optimal pharmaceutical composition will be determined by one skilled in the art depending upon, for example, the intended route of administration, delivery format and desired dosage. See, for example, REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, supra. In certain embodiments, such compositions may influence the physical state, stability, rate of in vivo release and rate of in vivo clearance of the antigen binding proteins of the invention. In certain embodiments, the primary vehicle or carrier in a pharmaceutical composition may be either aqueous or non-aqueous in nature. For example, a suitable vehicle or carrier may be water for injection, physiological saline solution or artificial cerebrospinal fluid, possibly supplemented with other materials common in compositions for parenteral administration. Neutral buffered saline or saline mixed with serum albumin are further exemplary vehicles. In specific embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprise Tris buffer of about pH 7.0-8.5, or acetate buffer of about pH 4.0-5.5, and may further include sorbitol or a suitable substitute therefor. In certain embodiments of the invention, IL-17RA antigen binding protein compositions may be prepared for storage by mixing the selected composition having the desired degree of purity with optional formulation agents (REMINGTON'S PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, supra) in the form of a lyophilized cake or an aqueous solution. Further, in certain embodiments, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein product may be formulated as a lyophilizate using appropriate excipients such as sucrose.

The pharmaceutical compositions of the invention can be selected for parenteral delivery. Alternatively, the compositions may be selected for inhalation or for delivery through the digestive tract, such as orally. Preparation of such pharmaceutically acceptable compositions is within the skill of the art. The formulation components are present preferably in concentrations that are acceptable to the site of administration. In certain embodiments, buffers are used to maintain the composition at physiological pH or at a slightly lower pH, typically within a pH range of from about 5 to about 8.

When parenteral administration is contemplated, the therapeutic compositions for use in this invention may be provided in the form of a pyrogen-free, parenterally acceptable aqueous solution comprising the desired IL-17RA antigen binding protein in a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle. A particularly suitable vehicle for parenteral injection is sterile distilled water in which the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is formulated as a sterile, isotonic solution, properly preserved. In certain embodiments, the preparation can involve the formulation of the desired molecule with an agent, such as injectable microspheres, bio-erodible particles, polymeric compounds (such as polylactic acid or polyglycolic acid), beads or liposomes, that may provide controlled or sustained release of the product which can be delivered via depot injection. In certain embodiments, hyaluronic acid may also be used, having the effect of promoting sustained duration in the circulation. In certain embodiments, implantable drug delivery devices may be used to introduce the desired antigen binding protein.

Pharmaceutical compositions of the invention can be formulated for inhalation. In these embodiments, IL-17RA antigen binding proteins are advantageously formulated as a dry, inhalable powder. In specific embodiments, IL-17RA antigen binding protein inhalation solutions may also be formulated with a propellant for aerosol delivery. In certain embodiments, solutions may be nebulized. Pulmonary administration and formulation methods therefore are further described in International Patent Application No. PCT/US94/001875, which is incorporated by reference and describes pulmonary delivery of chemically modified proteins. It is also contemplated that formulations can be administered orally. IL-17RA antigen binding proteins that are administered in this fashion can be formulated with or without carriers customarily used in the compounding of solid dosage forms such as tablets and capsules. In certain embodiments, a capsule may be designed to release the active portion of the formulation at the point in the gastrointestinal tract when bioavailability is maximized and pre-systemic degradation is minimized Additional agents can be included to facilitate absorption of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein. Diluents, flavorings, low melting point waxes, vegetable oils, lubricants, suspending agents, tablet disintegrating agents, and binders may also be employed.

A pharmaceutical composition of the invention is preferably provided to comprise an effective quantity of one or a plurality of IL-17RA antigen binding proteins in a mixture with non-toxic excipients that are suitable for the manufacture of tablets. By dissolving the tablets in sterile water, or another appropriate vehicle, solutions may be prepared in unit-dose form. Suitable excipients include, but are not limited to, inert diluents, such as calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate or bicarbonate, lactose, or calcium phosphate; or binding agents, such as starch, gelatin, or acacia; or lubricating agents such as magnesium stearate, stearic acid, or talc.

Additional pharmaceutical compositions will be evident to those skilled in the art, including formulations involving IL-17RA antigen binding proteins in sustained- or controlled-delivery formulations. Techniques for formulating a variety of other sustained- or controlled-delivery means, such as liposome carriers, bio-erodible microparticles or porous beads and depot injections, are also known to those skilled in the art. See, for example, International Patent Application No. PCT/US93/00829, which is incorporated by reference and describes controlled release of porous polymeric microparticles for delivery of pharmaceutical compositions. Sustained-release preparations may include semipermeable polymer matrices in the form of shaped articles, e.g., films, or microcapsules. Sustained release matrices may include polyesters, hydrogels, polylactides (as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,773,919 and European Patent Application Publication No. EP 058481, each of which is incorporated by reference), copolymers of L-glutamic acid and gamma ethyl-L-glutamate (Sidman et al., 1983, Biopolymers 2:547-556), poly (2-hydroxyethyl-inethacrylate) (Langer et al., 1981, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. 15:167-277 and Langer, 1982, Chem. Tech. 12:98-105), ethylene vinyl acetate (Langer et al., 1981, supra) or poly-D(−)-3-hydroxybutyric acid (European Patent Application Publication No. EP 133,988). Sustained release compositions may also include liposomes that can be prepared by any of several methods known in the art. See, e.g., Eppstein et al., 1985, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 82:3688-3692; European Patent Application Publication Nos. EP 036,676; EP 088,046 and EP 143,949, incorporated by reference.

Pharmaceutical compositions used for in vivo administration are typically provided as sterile preparations. Sterilization can be accomplished by filtration through sterile filtration membranes. When the composition is lyophilized, sterilization using this method may be conducted either prior to or following lyophilization and reconstitution. Compositions for parenteral administration can be stored in lyophilized form or in a solution. Parenteral compositions generally are placed into a container having a sterile access port, for example, an intravenous solution bag or vial having a stopper pierceable by a hypodermic injection needle.

Aspects of the invention includes self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations, which can be used as pharmaceutical compositions, as described in international patent application WO 06138181A2 (PCT/US2006/022599), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein in which the total salt concentration is less than 150 mM.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations that further comprise an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and one or more polyols and/or one or more surfactants. One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein, in which the total salt concentration is less than 150 mM, that further comprise one or more excipients, including but not limited to, pharmaceutically acceptable salts; osmotic balancing agents (tonicity agents); surfactants, polyols, anti-oxidants; antibiotics; antimycotics; bulking agents; lyoprotectants; anti-foaming agents; chelating agents; preservatives; colorants; and analgesics. One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and one or more other pharmaceutically active agents.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein, wherein the IL-17RA antigen binding protein has a buffer capacity per unit volume per pH unit of at least that of approximately: 2.0 or 3.0 or 4.0 or 5.0 or 6.50 or 8.00 or 10.0 or 15.0 or 20.0 or 30.0 or 40.0 or 50.0 or 75.0 or 100 or 125 or 150 or 200 or 250 or 300 or 350 or 400 or 500 or 700 or 1,000 or 1,500 or 2,000 or 2,500 or 3,000 or 4,000 or 5,000 mM sodium acetate buffer in pure water over the range of pH 5.0 to 4.0 or pH 5.0 to 5.5, or at least 2.0 mM, or at least 3.0 mM, or at least 4.0 mM or at least 5.0 mM, or at least 7.5 mM, or at least 10 mM, or at least 20 mM.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations wherein, exclusive of the buffer capacity of the protein, the buffer capacity per unit volume per pH unit of the formulation is equal to or less than that of 1.0 or 1.5 or 2.0 or 3.0 or 4.0 or 5.0 mM sodium acetate buffer in pure water over the range of pH 4.0 to 5.0 or pH 5.0 to 5.5, or optionally less than that of 1.0 mM, optionally less than that of 2.0 mM, optionally less than that of 2.5 mM, optionally less than that of 3.0 mM, and optionally less than that of 5.0 mM.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein over the range of plus or minus 1 pH unit from the pH of the formulation, the buffer capacity of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is at least approximately: 1.00 or 1.50 or 1.63 or 2.00 or 3.00 or 4.00 or 5.00 or 6.50 or 8.00 or 10.0 or 15.0 or 20.0 or 30.0 or 40.0 or 50.0 or 75.0 or 100 or 125 or 150 or 200 or 250 or 300 or 350 or 400 or 500 or 700 or 1,000 or 1,500 or 2,000 or 2,500 or 3,000 or 4,000 or 5,000 mEq per liter per pH unit, optionally at least approximately 1.00, optionally at least approximately 1.50, optionally at least approximately 1.63, optionally at least approximately 2.00, optionally at least approximately 3.00, optionally at least approximately 5.0, optionally at least approximately 10.0, and optionally at least approximately 20.0. One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein over the range of plus or minus 1 pH unit from the pH of the formulation, exclusive of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein, the buffer capacity per unit volume per pH unit of the formulation is equal to or less than that of 0.50 or 1.00 or 1.50 or 2.00 or 3.00 or 4.00 or 5.00 or 6.50 or 8.00 or 10.0 or 20.0 or 25.0 mM sodium acetate buffer in pure water over the range pH 5.0 to 4.0 or pH 5.0 to 5.5.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein over a range of plus or minus 1 pH unit from a desired pH, the protein provides at least approximately 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 99.5% of the buffer capacity of the formulation, optionally at least approximately 75%, optionally at least approximately 85%, optionally at least approximately 90%, optionally at least approximately 95%, optionally at least approximately 99% of the buffer capacity of the formulation.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein the concentration of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is between approximately: 20 and 400, or 20 and 300, or 20 and 250, or 20 and 200, or 20 and 150 mg/ml, optionally between approximately 20 and 400 mg/ml, optionally between approximately 20 and 250, and optionally between approximately 20 and 150 mg/ml.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein the pH maintained by the buffering action of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is between approximately: 3.5 and 8.0, or 4.0 and 6.0, or 4.0 and 5.5, or 4.0 and 5.0, optionally between approximately 3.5 and 8.0, and optionally between approximately 4.0 and 5.5.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein the salt concentration is less than: 150 mM or 125 mM or 100 mM or 75 mM or 50 mM or 25 mM, optionally 150 mM, optionally 125 mM, optionally 100 mM, optionally 75 mM, optionally 50 mM, and optionally 25 mM.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable salts; polyols; surfactants; osmotic balancing agents; tonicity agents; anti-oxidants; antibiotics; antimycotics; bulking agents; lyoprotectants; anti-foaming agents; chelating agents; preservatives; colorants; analgesics; or additional pharmaceutical agents.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable polyols in an amount that is hypotonic, isotonic, or hypertonic, preferably approximately isotonic, particularly preferably isotonic, such as but not limited to any one or more of sorbitol, mannitol, sucrose, trehalose, or glycerol, optionally approximately 5% sorbitol, 5% mannitol, 9% sucrose, 9% trehalose, or 2.5% glycerol.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein further comprising a surfactant, preferably one or more of polysorbate 20, polysorbate 80, other fatty acid esters of sorbitan, polyethoxylates, and poloxamer 188, preferably polysorbate 20 or polysorbate 80, optionally approximately 0.001 to 0.1% polysorbate 20 or polysorbate 80, optionally approximately 0.002 to 0.02% polysorbate 20 or polysorbate 80, or optionally 0.002 to 0.02% polysorbate 20 or polysorbate 80.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein wherein the formulation is sterile and suitable for treatment of a human or non-human subject.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and a solvent, the IL-17RA antigen binding protein having a buffer capacity per unit volume per pH unit of at least that of 4.0 mM sodium acetate in water over the range of pH 4.0 to 5.0 or pH 5.0 to 5.5, wherein the buffer capacity per unit volume of the formulation exclusive of the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is equal to or less than that of 2.0 mM sodium acetate in water over the same ranges preferably determined in the same way.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein and a solvent, wherein at the pH of the formulation the buffer capacity of the protein is at least 1.63 mEq per liter for a pH change of the formulation of plus or minus 1 pH unit wherein the buffer capacity of the formulation exclusive of the protein is equal to or less than 0.81 mEq per liter at the pH of the formulation for a pH change of plus or minus 1 pH unit.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations comprising an IL-17RA antigen binding protein, wherein the formulation is in the form of a lyophilate which upon reconstitution provides a formulation in accordance with any of the foregoing or following.

One embodiment provides self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations in a kit comprising one or more vials containing a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation or a lyophilate of a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation in accordance with any of the foregoing or the following, and instructions regarding use thereof.

One embodiment provides a process for preparing a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation or a lyophilate thereof according to any of the foregoing or the following, comprising removing residual buffer using a counter ion.

One embodiment provides a process for preparing a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation or a lyophilate thereof according to any of the foregoing or the following, comprising removing residual buffer using any one or more of the following in the presence of a counter ion: chromatography, dialysis, and/or tangential flow filtration.

One embodiment provides a process for preparing a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation or a lyophilate thereof according to any of the foregoing or the following, comprising removing residual buffer using tangential flow filtration.

One embodiment provides a process for preparing a self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulation or a lyophilate thereof according to any of the foregoing or the following comprising a step of dialysis against a solution at a pH below that of the preparation, and, if necessary, adjusting the pH thereafter by addition of dilute acid or dilute base.

As discussed above, certain embodiments provide self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding proteins protein compositions, particularly pharmaceutical IL-17RA antigen binding protein compositions, that comprise, in addition to the IL-17RA antigen binding protein, one or more excipients such as those illustratively described in this section and elsewhere herein. Excipients can be used in the invention in this regard for a wide variety of purposes, such as adjusting physical, chemical, or biological properties of formulations, such as adjustment of viscosity, and or processes of the invention to improve effectiveness and or to stabilize such formulations and processes against degradation and spoilage due to, for instance, stresses that occur during manufacturing, shipping, storage, pre-use preparation, administration, and thereafter.

A variety of expositions are available on protein stabilization and formulation materials and methods useful in this regard, such as Arakawa et al., “Solvent interactions in pharmaceutical formulations,” Pharm Res. 8(3): 285-91 (1991); Kendrick et al., “Physical stabilization of proteins in aqueous solution,” in: RATIONAL DESIGN OF STABLE PROTEIN FORMULATIONS: THEORY AND PRACTICE, Carpenter and Manning, eds. Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. 13: 61-84 (2002), and Randolph et al., “Surfactant-protein interactions,” Pharm Biotechnol. 13: 159-75 (2002), each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, particularly in parts pertinent to excipients and processes of the same for self-buffering protein formulations in accordance with the current invention, especially as to protein pharmaceutical products and processes for veterinary and/or human medical uses.

Various excipients useful in the invention are listed in TABLE 3 and further described below.

TABLE 3 Types of Excipients and Their Functions Function Type Liquids Lyophilates Tonicity Provides isotonicity to the formulation such that Stabilizers include cryo and lyoprotectants Agents/ it is suitable for injection Examples include polyols, sugars and polymers Stabilizers Examples include polyols, salts, and amino acids Cryoprotectants protect proteins from freezing Help maintain the protein in a more compact stresses state (polyols) Lyoprotectants stabilize proteins in the freeze- Minimize electrostatic, solution protein-protein dried state interactions (salts) Bulking Not applicable Used to enhance product elegance and to prevent Agents blowout Provides structural strength to the lyo cake Examples include mannitol and glycine Surfactants Prevent/control aggregation, particle formation Employed if aggregation during the and surface adsorption of drug lyophilization process is an issue Examples include polysorbate 20 and 80 May serve to reduce reconstitution times Examples include polysorbate 20 and 80 Anti-oxidants Control protein oxidation Usually not employed, molecular reactions in the lyophilized cake are greatly retarded Metal A specific metal ion is included in a liquid May be included if a specific metal ion is Ions/ formulation only as a co-factor included only as a co-factor Chelating Divalent cations such as zinc and magnesium are Chelating agents are generally not needed in Agents utilized in suspension formulations lyophilized formulations Chelating agents are used to inhibit heavy metal ion catalyzed reactions Preservatives Important particularly for multi-dose For multi-dose formulations only formulations Provides protection against microbial growth in Protects against microbial growth, formulation Example: benzyl alcohol Is usually included in the reconstitution diluent (e.g. bWFI)

Salts may be used in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention to, for example, adjust the ionic strength and/or the isotonicity of a self-buffering formulation and/or to improve the solubility and/or physical stability of a self-buffering protein or other ingredient of a self-buffering protein composition in accordance with the invention.

As is well known, ions can stabilize the native state of proteins by binding to charged residues on the protein's surface and by shielding charged and polar groups in the protein and reducing the strength of their electrostatic interactions, attractive, and repulsive interactions. Ions also can stabilize the denatured state of a protein by binding to, in particular, the denatured peptide linkages (—CONH) of the protein. Furthermore, ionic interaction with charged and polar groups in a protein also can reduce intermolecular electrostatic interactions and, thereby, prevent or reduce protein aggregation and insolubility.

Ionic species differ significantly in their effects on proteins. A number of categorical rankings of ions and their effects on proteins have been developed that can be used in formulating self-buffering protein compositions in accordance with the invention. One example is the Hofmeister series, which ranks ionic and polar non-ionic solutes by their effect on the conformational stability of proteins in solution. Stabilizing solutes are referred to as “kosmotropic.” Destabilizing solutes are referred to as chaotropic. Kosmotropes commonly are used at high concentrations (e.g., >1 molar ammonium sulfate) to precipitate proteins from solution (“salting-out”). Chaotropes commonly are used to denture and/or to solubilize proteins (“salting-in”). The relative effectiveness of ions to “salt-in” and “salt-out” defines their position in the Hofmeister series.

In addition to their utilities and their drawbacks (as discussed above) salts also are effective for reducing the viscosity of protein formulations and can be used in the invention for that purpose. In order to maintain isotonicity in a parenteral formulation in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, improve protein solubility and/or stability, improve viscosity characteristics, avoid deleterious salt effects on protein stability and aggregation, and prevent salt-mediated protein degradation, the salt concentration in self-buffering formulations in accordance with various preferred embodiments of the invention are less than 150 mM (as to monovalent ions) and 150 mEq/liter for multivalent ions. In this regard, in certain particularly preferred embodiments of the invention, the total salt concentration is from about 75 mEq/L to about 140 mEq/L.

Free amino acids can be used in self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations in accordance with various embodiments of the invention as bulking agents, stabilizers, and antioxidants, as well as other standard uses. However, amino acids included in self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations do not provide buffering action. For this reason, those with significant buffer capacity either are not employed, are not employed at any pH around which they have significant buffering activity, or are used at low concentration so that, as a result, their buffer capacity in the formulation is not significant. This is particularly the case for histidine and other amino acids that commonly are used as buffers in pharmaceutical formulations.

Subject to the foregoing consideration, lysine, proline, serine, and alanine can be used for stabilizing proteins in a formulation. Glycine is useful in lyophilization to ensure correct cake structure and properties. Arginine may be useful to inhibit protein aggregation, in both liquid and lyophilized formulations. Methionine is useful as an antioxidant.

Polyols include sugars, e.g., mannitol, sucrose, and sorbitol and polyhydric alcohols such as, for instance, glycerol and propylene glycol, and, for purposes of discussion herein, polyethylene glycol (PEG) and related substances. Polyols are kosmotropic. They are useful stabilizing agents in both liquid and lyophilized formulations to protect proteins from physical and chemical degradation processes. Polyols also are useful for adjusting the tonicity of formulations.

Among polyols useful in select embodiments of the invention is mannitol, commonly used to ensure structural stability of the cake in lyophilized formulations. It ensures structural stability to the cake. It is generally used with a lyoprotectant, e.g., sucrose. Sorbitol and sucrose are among preferred agents for adjusting tonicity and as stabilizers to protect against freeze-thaw stresses during transport or the preparation of bulks during the manufacturing process. Reducing sugars (which contain free aldehyde or ketone groups), such as glucose and lactose, can glycate surface lysine and arginine residues. Therefore, they generally are not among preferred polyols for use in accordance with the invention. In addition, sugars that form such reactive species, such as sucrose, which is hydrolyzed to fructose and glucose under acidic conditions, and consequently engenders glycation, also is not among preferred amino acids of the invention in this regard. PEG is useful to stabilize proteins and as a cryoprotectant and can be used in the invention in this regard, such as it is in Recombinate®.

Embodiments of the self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations further comprise surfactants. Protein molecules may be susceptible to adsorption on surfaces and to denaturation and consequent aggregation at air-liquid, solid-liquid, and liquid-liquid interfaces. These effects generally scale inversely with protein concentration. These deleterious interactions generally scale inversely with protein concentration and typically are exacerbated by physical agitation, such as that generated during the shipping and handling of a product.

Surfactants routinely are used to prevent, minimize, or reduce surface adsorption. Useful surfactants in the invention in this regard include polysorbate 20, polysorbate 80, other fatty acid esters of sorbitan polyethoxylates, and poloxamer 188.

Surfactants also are commonly used to control protein conformational stability. The use of surfactants in this regard is protein-specific since, any given surfactant typically will stabilize some proteins and destabilize others.

Polysorbates are susceptible to oxidative degradation and often, as supplied, contain sufficient quantities of peroxides to cause oxidation of protein residue side-chains, especially methionine. Consequently, polysorbates should be used carefully, and when used, should be employed at their lowest effective concentration. In this regard, polysorbates exemplify the general rule that excipients should be used in their lowest effective concentrations.

Embodiments of the self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations further comprise one or more antioxidants. To some extent deleterious oxidation of proteins can be prevented in pharmaceutical formulations by maintaining proper levels of ambient oxygen and temperature and by avoiding exposure to light. Antioxidant excipients can be used as well to prevent oxidative degradation of proteins. Among useful antioxidants in this regard are reducing agents, oxygen/free-radical scavengers, and chelating agents. Antioxidants for use in therapeutic protein formulations in accordance with the invention preferably are water-soluble and maintain their activity throughout the shelf life of a product. EDTA is a preferred antioxidant in accordance with the invention in this regard and can be used in the invention in much the same way it has been used in formulations of acidic fibroblast growth factor and in products such as Kineret® and Ontak®.

Antioxidants can damage proteins. For instance, reducing agents, such as glutathione in particular, can disrupt intramolecular disulfide linkages. Thus, antioxidants for use in the invention are selected to, among other things, eliminate or sufficiently reduce the possibility of themselves damaging proteins in the formulation.

Formulations in accordance with the invention may include metal ions that are protein co-factors and that are necessary to form protein coordination complexes, such as zinc necessary to form certain insulin suspensions. Metal ions also can inhibit some processes that degrade proteins. However, metal ions also catalyze physical and chemical processes that degrade proteins.

Magnesium ions (10-120 mM) can be used to inhibit isomerization of aspartic acid to isoaspartic acid. Ca⁺² ions (up to 100 mM) can increase the stability of human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase, Pulmozyme®). Mg⁺², Mn⁺², and Zn⁺², however, can destabilize rhDNase. Similarly, Ca⁺² and Sr⁺² can stabilize Factor VIII, it can be destabilized by Mg⁺², Mn⁺² and Zn⁺², Cu⁺² and Fe^(+2.) and its aggregation can be increased by Al⁺³ ions.

Embodiments of the self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations further comprise one or more preservatives. Preservatives are necessary when developing multi-dose parenteral formulations that involve more than one extraction from the same container. Their primary function is to inhibit microbial growth and ensure product sterility throughout the shelf-life or term of use of the drug product. Commonly used preservatives include benzyl alcohol, phenol and m-cresol. Although preservatives have a long history of use with small-molecule parenterals, the development of protein formulations that includes preservatives can be challenging. Preservatives almost always have a destabilizing effect (aggregation) on proteins, and this has become a major factor in limiting their use in multi-dose protein formulations. To date, most protein drugs have been formulated for single-use only. However, when multi-dose formulations are possible, they have the added advantage of enabling patient convenience, and increased marketability. A good example is that of human growth hormone (hGH) where the development of preserved formulations has led to commercialization of more convenient, multi-use injection pen presentations. At least four such pen devices containing preserved formulations of hGH are currently available on the market. Norditropin® (liquid, Novo Nordisk), Nutropin AQ® (liquid, Genentech) & Genotropin (lyophilized-dual chamber cartridge, Pharmacia & Upjohn) contain phenol while Somatrope® (Eli Lilly) is formulated with m-cresol.

Several aspects need to be considered during the formulation and development of preserved dosage forms. The effective preservative concentration in the drug product must be optimized This requires testing a given preservative in the dosage form with concentration ranges that confer anti-microbial effectiveness without compromising protein stability. For example, three preservatives were successfully screened in the development of a liquid formulation for interleukin-1 receptor (Type I) using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The preservatives were rank ordered based on their impact on stability at concentrations commonly used in marketed products.

As might be expected, development of liquid formulations containing preservatives are more challenging than lyophilized formulations. Freeze-dried products can be lyophilized without the preservative and reconstituted with a preservative containing diluent at the time of use. This shortens the time for which a preservative is in contact with the protein, significantly minimizing the associated stability risks. With liquid formulations, preservative effectiveness and stability have to be maintained over the entire product shelf-life (˜18 to 24 months). An important point to note is that preservative effectiveness has to be demonstrated in the final formulation containing the active drug and all excipient components.

Self-buffering IL-17RA antigen binding protein formulations generally will be designed for specific routes and methods of administration, for specific administration dosages and frequencies of administration, for specific treatments of specific diseases, with ranges of bio-availability and persistence, among other things. Formulations thus may be designed in accordance with the invention for delivery by any suitable route, including but not limited to orally, aurally, opthalmically, rectally, and vaginally, and by parenteral routes, including intravenous and intraarterial injection, intramuscular injection, and subcutaneous injection.

Compositions in accordance with the invention may be produced using well-known, routine methods for making, formulating, and using proteins, particularly pharmaceutical proteins. In certain of the preferred embodiments of a number of aspects of the invention in this regard, methods for preparing the compositions comprise the use of counter ions to remove residual buffering agents. In this regard the term counter ion is any polar or charged constituent that acts to displace buffer from the composition during its preparation. Counter ions useful in this regard include, for instance, glycine, chloride, sulfate, and phosphate. The term counter ion in this regard is used to mean much the same thing as displacement ion.

Residual buffering agents can be removed using the counter ions in this regard, using a variety of well-known methods, including but not limited to, standard methods of dialysis and high performance membrane diffusion-based methods such as tangential flow diafiltration. Methods for residual buffer removal employing a counter ion in this regard can also, in some cases, be carried out using size exclusion chromatography.

In certain related preferred embodiments in this regard, compositions in accordance with the invention are prepared by a process that involves dialysis against a bufferless solution at a pH below that of the preparation containing the self-buffering protein. In particularly preferred embodiments of the invention in this regard, the bufferless solution comprises counter ions, particularly those that facilitate removal of residual buffer and do not adversely affect the self-buffering protein or the formulation thereof. In further particularly preferred embodiments of the invention in this regard, following dialysis the pH of the preparation is adjusted to the desired pH using dilute acid or dilute base.

In certain related particularly preferred embodiments in this regard, compositions in accordance with the invention are prepared by a process that involves tangential flow diafiltration against a bufferless solution at a pH below that of the preparation containing the self-buffering protein. In particularly preferred embodiments of the invention in this regard, the bufferless solution comprises counter ions, particularly those that facilitate removal of residual buffer and do not adversely affect the self-buffering protein or the formulation thereof. In further particularly preferred embodiments of the invention in this regard, following diafiltration the pH of the preparation is adjusted to the desired pH using dilute acid or dilute base.

Once the pharmaceutical composition has been formulated, it may be stored in sterile vials as a solution, suspension, gel, emulsion, solid, crystal, or as a dehydrated or lyophilized powder. Such formulations may be stored either in a ready-to-use form or in a form (e.g., lyophilized) that is reconstituted prior to administration. The invention also provides kits for producing a single-dose administration unit. The kits of the invention may each contain both a first container having a dried protein and a second container having an aqueous formulation. In certain embodiments of this invention, kits containing single and multi-chambered pre-filled syringes (e.g., liquid syringes and lyosyringes) are provided.

The therapeutically effective amount of an IL-17RA antigen binding protein-containing pharmaceutical composition to be employed will depend, for example, upon the therapeutic context and objectives. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the appropriate dosage levels for treatment will vary depending, in part, upon the molecule delivered, the indication for which the IL-17RA antigen binding protein is being used, the route of administration, and the size (body weight, body surface or organ size) and/or condition (the age and general health) of the patient. In certain embodiments, the clinician may titer the dosage and modify the route of administration to obtain the optimal therapeutic effect. A typical dosage may range from about 0.1 μg/kg to up to about 30 mg/kg or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. In specific embodiments, the dosage may range from 0.1 μg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg, optionally from 1 μg/kg up to about 30 mg/kg or from 10 μg/kg up to about 5 mg/kg.

Dosing frequency will depend upon the pharmacokinetic parameters of the particular IL-17RA antigen binding protein in the formulation used. Typically, a clinician administers the composition until a dosage is reached that achieves the desired effect. The composition may therefore be administered as a single dose, or as two or more doses (which may or may not contain the same amount of the desired molecule) over time, or as a continuous infusion via an implantation device or catheter. Further refinement of the appropriate dosage is routinely made by those of ordinary skill in the art and is within the ambit of tasks routinely performed by them. Appropriate dosages may be ascertained through use of appropriate dose-response data. In certain embodiments, the antigen binding proteins of the invention can be administered to patients throughout an extended time period. Chronic administration of an antigen binding protein of the invention minimizes the adverse immune or allergic response commonly associated with antigen binding proteins that are not fully human, for example an antibody raised against a human antigen in a non-human animal, for example, a non-fully human antibody or non-human antibody produced in a non-human species.

The route of administration of the pharmaceutical composition is in accord with known methods, e.g., orally, through injection by intravenous, intraperitoneal, intracerebral (intra-parenchymal), intracerebroventricular, intramuscular, intra-ocular, intraarterial, intraportal, or intralesional routes; by sustained release systems or by implantation devices. In certain embodiments, the compositions may be administered by bolus injection or continuously by infusion, or by implantation device.

The composition also may be administered locally via implantation of a membrane, sponge or another appropriate material onto which the desired molecule has been absorbed or encapsulated. In certain embodiments, where an implantation device is used, the device may be implanted into any suitable tissue or organ, and delivery of the desired molecule may be via diffusion, timed-release bolus, or continuous administration.

It also may be desirable to use IL-17RA antigen binding protein pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention ex vivo. In such instances, cells, tissues or organs that have been removed from the patient are exposed to IL-17RA antigen binding protein pharmaceutical compositions after which the cells, tissues and/or organs are subsequently implanted back into the patient.

In particular, IL-17RA antigen binding proteins can be delivered by implanting certain cells that have been genetically engineered, using methods such as those described herein, to express and secrete the polypeptide. In certain embodiments, such cells may be animal or human cells, and may be autologous, heterologous, or xenogeneic. In certain embodiments, the cells may be immortalized. In other embodiments, in order to decrease the chance of an immunological response, the cells may be encapsulated to avoid infiltration of surrounding tissues. In further embodiments, the encapsulation materials are typically biocompatible, semi-permeable polymeric enclosures or membranes that allow the release of the protein product(s) but prevent the destruction of the cells by the patient's immune system or by other detrimental factors from the surrounding tissues.

All references cited within the body of the instant specification are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

EXAMPLES

The following examples, including the experiments conducted and the results achieved, are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the invention.

Example 1

IL-17RA knockout mice were generated as described in Ye et al., 2001, J. Exp. Med. 194:519-527 and tested in a standard collagen induced arthritis (CIA) model. Briefly, Genomic clones encoding murine IL-17R were isolated from a 129 derived lambda library using a murine IL-17R cDNA probe and mapped by a combination of PCR, restriction digest, and sequence analyses using deposited genomic sequences corresponding to IL-17R locus on mouse chromosome 6 (GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ accession no. AC018559). A gene targeting vector was constructed by replacing 5.7 kb of genomic sequence containing exons 4-11 (corresponding to nucleotides 445-1,172 of the murine IL-17R cDNA) with a PGKneo cassette. A thymidine kinase cassette (MC-TK) was inserted into the 5′ end of the vector. 129 derived embryonic stem (ES) cells were electroporated with the targeting vector and selected in the presence of G418 and ganciclovir as described. ES clones carrying a targeted mutation in IL-17R were identified by a combination of PCR and genomic Southern blot analyses and were injected into C57BL/6 blastocysts. The resulting male chimeras were crossed to C57BL/6 females to generate mice heterozygous for the IL-17R mutation (IL-17R^(+/−)), which were subsequently intercrossed to generate IL-17R-deficient mice (IL-17R KO). These mice were moved to a C57BL/6 background by five successive backcrosses to C57BL/6 mice.

IL-17RA knockout mice showed reduced mean clinical score in the CIA model, as shown in FIG. 1 (see also Kolls et al., 2001, J. Ex. Med. 194:519-527; Lubberts at al., 2005, supra). In addition, the IL-17RA knockout mice showed only a 5% incidence of disease, whereas the wild-type mice showed a 71% incidence of disease.

Example 2

The histopathology of CIA-induced IL-17RA −/− mice and IL-17RA expressing mice was compared to determine the correlation between induced arthritis and the absence of IL-17RA signaling.

Mice were prepared as described in Example 1. The animals were sacrificed at fifteen to twenty weeks of age, and the histopathology of joints from the sacrificed animals were then examined. Histopathology of bone and cartilage in IL-17RA −/− knock-out mice and IL-17A/IL-17R expression mice (WT C57/BL6 (No. 2-18)) showed subchondral bone erosion of the talus and marked joint architecture disruption of tarsal-metatarsal joints (subchondral bone and articular cartilage erosion), as well as reactive periosteal bone formation (osteophytosis). Histopathology of ankle joints from mice deficient in IL-17RA −/− in an experimentally induced CIA model showed little joint inflammation and joint cartilage and bone erosion. However, the histopathologic analysis of an ankle joint of the rear paw of IL-17RA expressing mice showed marked chronic active inflammation. The significantly reduced incidence of joint inflammation and joint and bone erosion as compared to WT mice further implicates IL-17RA and IL-17RA signaling in inflammation and erosion.

Example 3

A model of MOG (Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein)-peptide-induced EAE model mice deficient in IL-17RA showed a delay in the onset of arthritis as well as an overall reduction in clinical scores as compared to WT mice.

IL-17RA knockout mice were prepared as described in Example 1. FIG. 2 shows the incidence and median onset of arthritis as a function of time for both IL-17RA −/− and IL-17RA wild-type mice. 15 out of 15 of the IL-17RA expressing wild-type mice exhibited arthrititic symptoms, with a mean onset of 13 days. By contrast, 14 of 15 IL-17RA −/− mice exhibited arthritic symptoms, with a mean onset of 22 days (p<0.0001 versus wild-type).

Clinical scores of IL-17RA −/− knockout mice show a lower mean clinical score, with a later onset, than wild-type mice. FIG. 3 shows reduced clinical scores in IL-17RA −/− knockout mice as compared to wild-type mice in a MOG-induced model. The IL-17RA −/− knockout population showed a significantly later onset of arthritis than the IL-17RA expressing wild-type population. Further, the IL-17RA −/− knockout population had a lower mean clinical score at all time points for onset of arthritis. The longer mean onset of arthritis and lower mean clinical score for arthritis observed in IL-17RA −/− mutants as compared to IL-17RA-expressing wild-type animals further implicates IL-17RA signaling in inflammation and erosion.

Example 4

Ovalbumin sensitized and challenged IL-17RA KO mice show a significant reduction of inflammatory cells in BAL (bronchoalveolar lavage) fluid compared to wild-type mice. IL-17RA KO mice were prepared as described in Example 1, and then challenged intra-nasally with ovalbumin. The number of inflammatory cells in the IL-17RA KO population were compared to the IL-17RA expressing wild-type population. FIG. 4 shows IL-17RA KO mice have reduced total numbers of inflammatory cells in BAL fluid than IL-17RA expressing wild-type mice in an ovalbumin-induced of asthma post-third challenge.

The IL-17RA KO mouse population was compared to IL-17RA expressing wild-type mice for the incidence of esoinophils (A), neutrophils (B), lymphocytes (C) and macrophages (D) in BAL fluid in an ovalbumin-induced model of asthma. FIGS. 5A-5D show that IL-17RA KO mice have reduced numbers of esoinophils (5A), neutrophils (5B) and lymphocytes (5C) in BAL fluid in the IL-17RA KO population as compared to the IL-17RA expressing wild-type population. No changes in BAL fluid macrophage (5D) were noted in either wile-type or IL-17RA KO mice (naïve and OVA-challenged). These data suggest that IL-17RA signaling is important in regulating immune-mediated inflammatory responses.

Example 5

IL-17RA antibodies were shown to reduce incidence of arthritis in a CIA (Collagen-Induced Arthritis) mouse model when administered prophylactically and therapeutically. The IL-17RA inhibition reduced clinical arthritis in both a prophylactic and therapeutic manner for several models if CIA.

The surrogate neutralizing mouse IL-17RA mAb administered prophylactically reduced mean clinical scores in wild-type CIA model in a dose-dependent manner. FIG. 6 shows the dose-dependent inhibition by IL-17RA mAb in wild-type CIA model. Mice were treated with either IL-17RA mAb or control Ig on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday schedule for 2.5 weeks post boost. Administration of 100 μg and 300 μg of IL-17RA antibodies resulted in a lower clinical score for 18 days post-boost than compared to isotype control Ig.

A reduction in bone loss and cartilage erosion in the joint was associated with the reduction of mean clinical scores at the 300 μg dose of the IL-17RA mAb. Histopathologic analysis and radiographic images analysis were compared to the IgG control. By both means of analysis, the ankle joint of the near paw of CBA/1 male mouse treated with an IL-18R mAb (isotype control) showed marked inflammation: subchondrial bone erosion of the talus, marked joint architecture disruption of tarsal-metatarsal joints (subchondrial bone and articular cartilage erosion), and reactive periosteal bone formation (osteophytosis). In stark contrast, the ankle joint of the rear paw of a DBA/1 mouse treated with 300 μg anti-IL-17RA mAb showed well-defined joint spaces, lack of edema and lack of periosteal reactive bone or lytic lesions indicated reduced bone loss and cartilage erosion.

Example 6

IL-17RA inhibition was also shown to be effective in a CIA model when dosing was initiated after the onset of clinical signs (i.e, therapeutic dosing protocol) in a wild-type and TNFR p55/p75 KO model. Treatment was initiated approximately 6-7 days post collagen introduction in both models. FIG. 7 shows that therapeutic treatment with anti-IL-17RA mAb stabilized mean clinical scores in both wild-type mice. FIG. 8 shows that therapeutic treatment with anti-IL-17RA mAb stabilized mean clinical scores in TNFR p55/p75 KO models. Mice were treated with either an anti-IL-17RA mAb, anti-IL-1R mAb, or control Ig on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday schedule for 2 weeks post randomization into therapeutic treatment groups. These data are representative of 2 independent experiments performed in both WT and TNFR p55/p75 KO CIA models. Administering anti-IL-17RA mAbs showed a reduced clinical score as compared to control IgG in CIA induced wild-type mice. Surprisingly, the similar efficacy of anti-IL-17RA mAbs in the TNF p55/p75 KO model stabilized CIA independently of TNF signaling. This data suggests anti-IL-17RA antigen binding protein therapy may pick up non-responsers to anti-TNF therapies. Combination therapy of an anti-IL-17RA antigen binding protein with anti-TNF therapies may be more beneficial than either alone.

Example 7

The development of fully human monoclonal antibodies directed against human IL-17RA was carried out using Abgenix (now Amgen Fremont Inc.) XenoMouse® technology (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,114,598; 6,162,963; 6,833,268; 7,049,426; 7,064,244, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety; Green et al, 1994, Nature Genetics 7:13-21; Mendez et al., 1997, Nature Genetics 15:146-156; Green and Jakobovitis, 1998, J. Ex. Med. 188:483-495)). TABLE 4 shows the portions of the IL-17RA protein used as an immunogen and cell lines used to generate and screen anti-IL-17RA antibodies.

TABLE 4 Reagent Description IL-17RA.Fc Human IL-17RA extracellular domain with a C-terminal human Fc domain. Expressed in a stable CHO cell line. IL-17RA-FLAG-polyHis Human IL-17RA extracellular domain with a (SEQ ID NO: 431) C-terminal FLAG-polyHis tag. Expressed by transient transfection in COS PKB cells. IL-17RA CHO cells Human IL-17RA full-length expressed on the surface of CHO cells.

IgG2 XenoMouse® mice were immunized/boosted with IL-17RA-Fc (group 1) and IL-17RA-FLAG-polyHis (group 2). Serum titers were monitored by ELISA and mice with the best titers were fused to generate hybridomas. The resulting polyclonal supernatants were screened for binding to IL-17RA by ELISA, and the positive supernatants were screened for binding to IL-17RA CHO cells by FMAT. Positive supernatants were subjected to additional screening. IgG2 XenoMouse® mice were immunized with the following immunogens: IL-17RA-Fc (group 3) and IL-17RA-FLAG-pHis (group 4) and were tested following additional immunizations.

Example 8

The anti-IL-17RA antibodies were characterized. Non-clonal hybridoma supernatants were prepared in volumes of 1-2 mls (the Ig concentrations were not determined for these supernatants). The anti-IL-17RA non-clonal hybridoma supernatants were initially screened by FACS for their ability to inhibit biotinylated human IL-17A binding to CHO cells over-expressing human IL-17RA and another CHO cell line over-expressing cynomolgus IL-17RA. Nonclonal supernatants that were able to completely or nearly completely inhibit binding of human IL-17A to CHO-huIL-17RA and CHO-cynoIL-17RA were subsequently screened at several dilutions in an IL-17A-induced cytokine/chemokine secretion assay using a human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) cell line. Anti-IL-17RA non-clonal supernatants were incubated with HFF cells (5000 cells/well in 96 well plate) for 30 minutes at 36° C. and then stimulated overnight with either IL-17A (5 ng/ml) alone or IL-17F (20 ng/ml) and TNF-alpha (5 ng/ml). Fibroblast culture supernatants were then analyzed by ELISA for the presence of either IL-6 or GRO-alpha. Anti-IL-17RA non-clonal hybridomas were selected for sub-cloning based on their performance in the CHO-IL-17RA FACS assay and HFF bioassay. An example of the selection is shown in TABLES 5, 6, and 7.

TABLE 5 HFF Bioassay Repeat assays 1:4 dil. 1:32 1:4 1:32 1:128 % inhibition of IL-6 % positive % positive MFI production Neg. Cntl. 1.09 1.57 10 IL-17 biot. (500 ng/ml) 8.85 10.22 77 Supernatant I.D.  1 1.34 1.78 9 56 14  2 (incl. AM_(H)15/AM_(L)15) 0.60 3.77 6 80 72 98 91 81  3 1.04 1.60 8 46 −5  4 (incl. AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) 1.72 0.79 10 90 82 99 92 84  5 1.59 1.43 11 76 52  6 1.45 1.93 14 82 79  7 1.00 1.28 8 71 58  8 1.43 1.60 14 69 31  9 1.34 2.28 18 59 20 10 0.79 1.96 11 58 −2 11 1.93 1.69 11 72 21 12 2.23 1.69 8 69 7 13 (incl. 1.49 0.49 6 82 53 AM_(H)21/AM_(L)21) 14 1.01 1.25 8 63 23 15 1.31 1.45 9 74 45 16 1.39 0.72 8 58 4 17 0.91 0.94 7 73 38 18 1.37 2.85 13 49 6 19 1.47 1.15 8 74 61 20 1.60 1.20 7 72 46 21 1.30 1.65 8 47 4 22 0.93 1.02 8 54 16 23 1.08 1.12 7 72 59

In TABLE 5, anti-IL-17RA non-clonal hybridoma supernatants were screened for binding to IL-17RA. The first half of TABLE 5 shows the % positive and mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) in results from flow cytometry (i.e, FACS). The % positive shows inhibition of biotin-huIL-17A binding to huIL-17RA⁺ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The MFI column shows inhibition of biotinylated huIL-17A binding to cyno IL-17RA⁺ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The second half of TABLE 5 shows the HFF binding intensity for the non-clonal and mAbs as measured by the % intensity of IL-6 production. The first 2 columns show an IL-17A/HFF bioassay with non-clonal hybridoma supernatants and the last 4 columns are repeat IL-17A/HFF bioassay results with non-clonal hybridoma supernatants.

TABLE 6 FACS results on 293-Cyno IL-17RA- expressing Cells HFF bioassay Repeat 1:4 dilution 1:32 1:4 % % % inhibition positive positive MFI of IL-6 production 1:32 1:128 1:512 Neg. Cntl 1.09 1.57 1.0 IL-17biot. (500 ng/ml) 8.85 10.22 77 Supernatant I.D.  1 (incl. 1.32 1.4 9 AM_(H)11/AM_(L)11)  2 0.87 2.92 9  3 1.0 4.47 16  4 1.03 5.01 17  5 0.6 6.53 18  6 (incl. 0.73 4.55 9 AM_(H)5/AM_(L)5)  7 0.59 5.18 8  8 0.45 7.25 7  9 2.34 2.36 6 61 36 10 6.76 8.35 64 37 12 11 0.78 1.16 6 61 24 12 0.61 1.64 6 74 56 71 67 45 35 13 2.98 5.48 22 −2 −13 14 5.34 10.64 49 22 2 3 39 31 34 15 0.5 3.24 11 51 −7 16 (incl. 0.54 2.93 18 92 72 91 73 73 29 AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 17 1.25 2.2 17 −8 −76 18 0.61 0.99 7 73 28 19 (incl. AM_(H)23) 0.69 1.72 10 79 72 86 76 67 50 20 1.53 1.94 31 5 −31 21 6.66 9.63 66 −15 4 22 6.33 10.32 71 1 14 23 0.3 2.55 7 50 35 24 0.24 4.11 6 34 15 25 0.81 0.99 8 −49 11 26 0.43 1.31 7 67 48 27 0.7 1.23 11 50 26 28 0.58 1.32 9 56 47 29 (incl. 0.8 1.85 11 77 76 90 87 79 66 AM_(H)1/AM_(L)1) 30 0.69 1.55 11 40 16 31 0.56 1.96 12 12 −11 32 0.21 1.11 8 46 7 33 1.24 1.15 13 68 43 34 0.74 0.81 11 36 8 35 0.71 1.37 9 65 21 36 0.57 1.21 7 78 32 37 0.59 1.0 8 71 3 38 0.65 1.43 8 63 −38 39 0.28 1.23 7 43 −21 40 0.35 2.48 9 50 −39 41 0.64 1.61 8 49 −19 42 0.12 1.04 8 87 68 96 92 80 66 43 0.21 1.12 11 79 34 44 0.32 1.33 8 68 −3 45 0.74 1.68 10 40 −16 46 0.58 1.74 10 64 7

TABLE 6 shows IL-17RA non-clonal hybridoma supernatant screening data. The % positive and MFI columns show results from flow cytometry (FACS). The % positive columns show inhibition of biotin-huIL-17A binding to huIL-17RA⁻ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The MFI column shows inhibition of biotinylated huIL-17A binding to cyno IL-17RA⁺ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The first 2 HFF bioassay columns are IL-17A/HFF bioassay with non-clonal hybridoma supernatants and the last 4 bioassay columns are repeat IL-17A/HFF bioassay results with selected non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. A number of supernatants were selected for sub-cloning.

TABLE 7 HFF bioassay 1:4 1:32 1:128 % % inhibition of positive MFI IL-6 Production Neg. Cntl 1.09 1.57 10 IL-17biot. 8.85 10.22 77 (500 ng/ml) Supernatant I.D.  1 1.85 1.33 10 29 9 21  2 1.08 1.46 16 90 61 50  3 1.29 1.39 22 33 10 4  4 1.55 1.33 18 53 66 58  5 1.69 0.7 8 76 46 30  6 (incl. 1.52 0.89 6 73 78 75 AM_(H)13/AM_(L)13)  7 1.54 0.98 7 79 71 45  8 1.78 3.44 34 73 63 30  9 6.34 8.45 53 57 48 34 10 1.23 1.58 10 82 71 31 11 1.62 2.1 28 −10 −6 −10 12 1.15 1.04 16 71 63 37 13 2.43 1.67 12 58 23 −4 14 1.43 1.03 13 42 17 18 15 1.62 1.59 18 67 59 31 16 1.79 2.2 25 61 57 45 17 0.91 1.85 10 49 54 23 18 (incl. 1 1.36 6 75 82 61 AM_(H)12/AM_(L)12) 19 (incl. 1.75 1.23 8 90 81 73 AM_(H)17/AM_(L)17) 20 2.31 0.49 9 35 20 38 21 (incl. 1.84 0.76 6 86 90 71 AM_(H)16/AM_(L)16)

TABLE 7 shows anti-IL-17RA non-clonal hybridoma supernatant screening data. The first two columns are flow cytometry data (FACS). The % positive columns show inhibition of biotin-huIL-17A binding to huIL-17RA⁺ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The MFI column shows inhibition of biotinylated huIL-17A binding to cynomologous IL-17RA⁺ CHO cells by the non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. The final three columns show IL-17A/HFF bioassay results with non-clonal hybridoma supernatants. Supernatants 6, 18, 19 and 21 were selected for subcloning.

TABLE 8 IL-17A/HFF Low bioassay resolution BIAcore Sub-clone ID IC₅₀ (nM) K_(D) (nM)  1. Subclone of (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) 0.12 0.69  2. Subclone of (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14)2 0.20 ND  3. Subclone of (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14)3 0.075 ND  4. Subclone of (AM_(H)21/AM_(L)21) 2.3 ND  5. Subclone of (AM_(H)21/AM_(L)21) 3.1 ND  6. Subclone of (AM_(H)21/AM_(L)21) 3.3 16.7  7. Subclone of (AM_(H)20/AM_(L)20) 8.1 ND  8. Subclone of (AM_(H)20/AM_(L)20) 6.6 ND  9. Subclone of (AM_(H)20/AM_(L)20) 6.7 11.6 10. Subclone of (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19) 0.22 3.1 11. Subclone of (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19) 1.1 ND 12. Subclone of (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19) 0.50 ND 13. Subclone of (AM_(H)13/AM_(L)13) >10 7.6 14. Subclone of (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) 0.44 ND 15. Subclone of (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) 0.40 ND 16. Subclone of (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) 0.17 14.9 17. Subclone of (AM_(H)12/AM_(L)12) 3.5 ND 18. Subclone of (AM_(H)12/AM_(L)12) 3.7 8.2 20. Subclone of (AM_(H)12/AM_(L)12) 5.5 ND 21. Subclone of (AM_(H)17/AM_(L)17) 2.5 8.2 22. Subclone of (AM_(H)17/AM_(L)17) 5.3 ND 23. Subclone of (AM_(H)17/AM_(L)17) 0.57 ND 24. Subclone of (AM_(H)16/AM_(L)16) 1.6 ND 25. Subclone of (AM_(H)16/AM_(L)16) 2.3 6.2 26. Subclone of (AM_(H)16/AM_(L)16) 1.4 ND 27. Subclone of (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 0.046 1.5 28. Subclone of (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 0.09 ND 29. Subclone of (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 0.07 ND ND = not determined

TABLE 8 shows IL-17A/HFF bioassay IC50 values and low resolution BIAcore® K_(D) values for subcloned hybridomas. Lower IC50 and K_(D) values in the IL-17A/HFF IL-17RA binding assays showed that the IL-17RA mAbs inhibited binding of IL-17A to IL-17 receptor A. Antibodies were selected for further characterization based on low K_(D) values for inhibiting IL-17A binding to human IL-17RA.

Example 9

IL-17RA human mAb clones having the heavy and light chain sequences (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22), (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19), (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) and (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) were selected for recombinant mAb production and further bioassay characterization. TABLE 9 below shows IC50 values for the selected Abs in the HFF bioassay and a primary lung fibroblast bioassay against both IL-17A and IL-17F.

TABLE 9 IL-17A/HFF IL-17F/HFF IL-17A/lung IL-17RA mAb IC50 (nM) IC50 (nM) fibroblast IC50 (nM) (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) 0.13 0.067 0.04 (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 0.10 0.033 0.14 (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19) 0.20 0.087 0.22 (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) 0.33 0.073 0.081

The selected human mAbs inhibited IL-17A binding to IL-17RA. In addition to the lower IC50 values observed for IL-17A binding to IL-17RA, the selected human mAbs exhibited reduced IC50 values inhibiting the binding of IL-17F to IL-17RA (second column). Therefore, the selected human mAbs inhibit both IL-17A-IL-17RA binding and IL-17F-IL-17RA binding.

Example 10

Exemplary IL-17RA human mAbs were tested in a cynomolgus bioassay utilizing the cynomolgus-derived kidney epithelial cell line JTC-12 stimulated with cynomolgus IL-17A. FIG. 9 shows IL-17RA mAbs having the heavy and light chain sequences (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22), (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19), (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) and (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) in the inhibition of cynomolgus IL-17A-induced IL-6 production from JTC-12 cells. The (----) line depicts the positive control value of cynomologous IL-17 in combination with TNF-alpha. The (-.-.-) line depicts the positive control value of cynomologous TNF-alpha. The (....) line depicts the media control value. JTC-12 cells were preincubated for 30 mins with anti-IL-17RA mAbs and then stimulated overnight with cynomolgus IL-17A (5 ng/ml) and human TNF-alpha (5 ng/ml). FIG. 9 shows that each antibody was able to inhibit cynomolgous IL-17A from binding IL-17RA and inhibit IL-17RA activation, as determined by IL-6 production from JTC-12 cells. The IL-17RA antibody (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) was able to antagonize cynomolgous IL-17A-induced IL-6 production from JTC-12 cells with an IC50 of approximately 1.2 nM.

Example 11

In vitro binding of IL-17RA mAbs was assayed. The binding affinities of IL-17RA antibodies were measured by surface plasmon resonance using a Biacore 3000® instrument by standard methods known in the art. Antibody candidates were captured on CM4 chips derivatized with goat anti-human IgG (H+L) antibody (Jackson Immuno Research, Bar Harbor, Me.). A CM4 chip coated with goat anti-human IgG (H+L) antibody but without captured antibody was used as a reference. Soluble huIL-17RA-FLAG-polyHis (SEQ ID NO:431) at a concentration range of 0.46-1000 nM was flowed over the chips for 2 minutes (association phase) followed by a 15-30 minute disassociation phase. FLAG peptide, Asp-Tyr-Lys-Asp-Asp-Asp-Asp-Lys (DYKDDDDK) (SEQ ID NO:447) as described in Hopp et al., Bio/Technology 6:1204, 1988, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,011,912 enables rapid assay and facile purification of expressed recombinant protein. Reagents useful for preparing fusion proteins in which the FLAG peptide is fused to a given polypeptide are commercially available (Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.).

Experiments were conducted at 25° C. using a 50 uL/min flow rate. Data was fit to a 1:1 Model+Local Rmax using BIAeval Software® (v4.1).

TABLE 10 Human Antibody k_(a) (1/Ms) K_(D) (1/s) K_(A) (1/M) K_(D) (M) (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) 2.60 × 10⁵ 6.22 × 10⁻⁵ 4.18 × 10⁹ 2.39 × 10⁻¹⁰ (AM_(H)22/AM_(L)22) 2.35 × 10⁵ 1.17 × 10⁻⁴ 2.01 × 10⁹ 4.98 × 10⁻¹⁰ (AM_(H)19/AM_(L)19) 1.42 × 10⁵ 1.14 × 10⁻⁴ 1.25 × 10⁹ 8.02 × 10⁻¹⁰ (AM_(H)18/AM_(L)18) 1.02 × 10⁵ 1.01 × 10⁻³ 1.01 × 10⁸ 9.88 × 10⁻⁹ 

TABLE 10 shows the K_(D) of the human mAb clones was on the order of 10⁻¹⁰ to 10⁻⁹, with the clone having the heavy and light chain sequences (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) having the highest affinity. Each of the human monoclonal antibodies' kinetic data was consistent with the equilibrium data. The antibody with the heavy and light chain variable sequences (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14; SEQ ID NO:14 and SEQ ID NO:40, respectively) had the highest affinity for IL-17RA, as well as the slowest off-rate.

Example 12

The agonistic potential of IL-17RA human mAb having the heavy and light chain variable sequences (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) was assessed in vitro. The IL-17RA mAb (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) was tested for its agonist effects on HFF cells. IL-17RA mAb having the heavy and light chain sequences (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) was also tested under conditions of cross-linking with goat anti-human F(ab′)², goat anti-human IgG and mouse anti-human IgG prior to incubation on HFF cells. Recombinant IL-17RA mAb AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14 at 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 10 μg/ml, alone and pre-cross linked with murine anti-human IgG (Zymed/Invitrogen, San Diego, Calif.), goat anti-human F(ab′)² (Goat a-h-Fab) and goat anti-human IgG (Goat a-h IgG) were incubated overnight with HFF cells. GRO-alpha was assessed by ELISA. IL-17A alone served as a positive control for GRO-alpha production in this experiment. These data are representative of 2 independent experiments. IL-17RA mAb (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) alone had no effect on HFF cells. Pre-crosslinking anti-IL-17RA mAb (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) had no effect on GRO-alpha production from HFF cells. These data demonstrate that anti-IL-17RA mAb (AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14) either alone or pre-cross-linked and incubated with HFF cells was unable to induce a GRO-alpha response and therefore is not an agonistic mAb to IL-17RA.

Example 13

The effects of the germline (GL) changes to IL-17RA mAb AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14 were tested in the HFF bioassay. FIG. 10 shows sequence variation in the framework regions of SEQ ID NO:40 (AM_(L)14) in relation to germline residues and the effect on IC50 values. SEQ ID NO:40 (AM_(L)14) contains four non-germline residues in the framework, two in FR2 and two in FR3. Standard site-directed mutagenesis methods were used to generate germline versions A and B of AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14. These variants were tested in the IL-17A and IL-17F HFF bioassay: HFF cells were preincubated for 30 mins with various anti-IL-17RA mAbs and then stimulated overnight with IL-17 (5 ng/ml).

FIG. 11 shows that the two variants that had the residues returned to germline (see FIG. 10) had reduced IL-17A inhibitory activity in relation to AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14, indicating that some variation in the framework regions was tolerated but that some residues may influence activity. The (----) line indicates the positive control value of IL-17 stimulation in the absence of antibody (approximately 4062 pg/ml). The media-only control gave a value of approximately 71 pg/ml.

FIG. 12 shows that the two variants that had the residues returned to germline (see FIG. 10) had reduced IL-17F inhibitory activity in relation to AM_(H)14/AM_(L)14, indicating that some variation in the framework regions was tolerated but that some residues may influence activity. The positive control value of IL-17F in combination with TNF-alpha stimulation in the absence of antibody was approximately 10994 pg/ml, the value for TNF-alpha only was approximately 1534 pg/ml, and the media-only control gave a value of approximately 55 pg/ml. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating plaque psoriasis, comprising administering to a patient having plaque psoriasis a composition comprising an antibody selected from the group consisting of: a. an isolated antibody, comprising a light chain variable domain sequence comprising SEQ ID NO:40 and a heavy chain variable domain sequence comprising SEQ ID NO:14; and b. an isolated antibody, comprising a light chain CDR1 comprising SEQ ID NO:224, a light chain CDR2 comprising SEQ ID NO:225, a light chain CDR3 comprising SEQ ID NO:226, a heavy chain CDR1 comprising SEQ ID NO:146, a heavy chain CDR2 comprising SEQ ID NO:147, a heavy chain CDR3 comprising SEQ ID NO:148, wherein said antibody specifically binds to human IL-17 receptor A and inhibits the binding of IL-17A to said IL-17 receptor A.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising administering to said patient a second treatment comprising a pharmaceutical composition.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein said second treatment is administered prior to, concurrent with, or subsequent to administration of said composition comprising said antibody.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a diabody; h. a triabody; i. a tetrabody; j. a Fab fragment; k. a F(ab′)2 fragment; l. an IgD antibody; m. an IgE antibody; n. an IgM antibody; o. an IgG1 antibody; p. an IgG2 antibody; q. an IgG3 antibody; and r. an IgG4 antibody.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a Fab fragment; h. a F(ab′)2 fragment; i. an IgG1 antibody; and j. an IgG2 antibody.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is a human antibody.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is a human monoclonal antibody.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said antibody is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 14. A method of treating plaque psoriasis, comprising administering to a patient having plaque psoriasis a composition comprising an isolated antibody comprising a light chain CDR1 comprising SEQ ID NO:224, a light chain CDR2 comprising SEQ ID NO:225, a light chain CDR3 comprising SEQ ID NO:226, a heavy chain CDR1 comprising SEQ ID NO:146, a heavy chain CDR2 comprising SEQ ID NO:147, a heavy chain CDR3 comprising SEQ ID NO:148, wherein said antibody specifically binds to human IL-17 receptor A and inhibits the binding of IL-17A to said IL-17 receptor A.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising administering to said patient a second treatment comprising a pharmaceutical composition.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein said second treatment is administered prior to, concurrent with, or subsequent to administration of said composition comprising said antibody.
 17. The method of claim 14, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 19. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a diabody; h. a triabody; i. a tetrabody; j. a Fab fragment; k. a F(ab′)2 fragment; l. an IgD antibody; m. an IgE antibody; n. an IgM antibody; o. an IgG1 antibody; p. an IgG2 antibody; q. an IgG3 antibody; and r. an IgG4 antibody.
 20. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a Fab fragment; h. a F(ab′)2 fragment; i. an IgG1 antibody; and j. an IgG2 antibody.
 21. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is a human antibody.
 22. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody.
 23. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is a human monoclonal antibody.
 24. The method of claim 14, wherein said antibody is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 27. A method of treating plaque psoriasis, comprising administering to a patient having plaque psoriasis a composition comprising an isolated antibody comprising a light chain variable domain sequence comprising SEQ ID NO:40 and a heavy chain variable domain sequence comprising SEQ ID NO:14, wherein said antibody specifically binds to human IL-17 receptor A and inhibits the binding of IL-17A to said IL-17 receptor A.
 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising administering to said patient a second treatment comprising a pharmaceutical composition.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein said second treatment is administered prior to, concurrent with, or subsequent to administration of said composition comprising said antibody.
 30. The method of claim 27, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 32. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a diabody; h. a triabody; i. a tetrabody; j. a Fab fragment; k. a F(ab′)2 fragment; l. an IgD antibody; m. an IgE antibody; n. an IgM antibody; o. an IgG1 antibody; p. an IgG2 antibody; q. an IgG3 antibody; and r. an IgG4 antibody.
 33. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a humanized antibody; c. a chimeric antibody; d. a monoclonal antibody; e. an antigen-binding antibody fragment; f. a single chain antibody; g. a Fab fragment; h. a F(ab′)2 fragment; i. an IgG1 antibody; and j. an IgG2 antibody.
 34. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is a human antibody.
 35. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody.
 36. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is a human monoclonal antibody.
 37. The method of claim 27, wherein said antibody is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody.
 38. The method of claim 37, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 39. The method of claim 38, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 40. A method of treating plaque psoriasis, comprising administering to a patient having plaque psoriasis a composition comprising an isolated antibody comprising a light chain sequence comprising amino acids 21-234 of SEQ ID NO:429 and a heavy chain sequence comprising SEQ ID NO:427, wherein said antibody specifically binds to human IL-17 receptor A and inhibits the binding of IL-17A to said IL-17 receptor A.
 41. The method of claim 40, further comprising administering to said patient a second treatment comprising a pharmaceutical composition.
 42. The method of claim 41, wherein said second treatment is administered prior to, concurrent with, or subsequent to administration of said composition comprising said antibody.
 43. The method of claim 40, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 44. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a monoclonal antibody; c. a single chain antibody; d. a diabody; e. a triabody; f. a tetrabody; and g. an IgG2 antibody.
 45. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a monoclonal antibody; c. a single chain antibody; and d. an IgG2 antibody.
 46. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is a human antibody.
 47. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody.
 48. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is a human monoclonal antibody.
 49. The method of claim 40, wherein said antibody is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody.
 50. The method of claim 49, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 51. The method of claim 50, wherein said pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 52. A method of treating plaque psoriasis, comprising administering to a patient having plaque psoriasis a composition comprising an isolated antibody comprising a light chain sequence encoded by a polynucleotide comprising nucleotides 84-741 of SEQ ID NO:428 and a heavy chain sequence encoded by a polynucleotide comprising SEQ ID NO:426, wherein said antibody is produced from a Chinese Hamster Ovary Cell (CHO cell), and wherein said antibody specifically binds to human IL-17 receptor A and inhibits the binding of IL-17A to said IL-17 receptor A.
 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising administering to said patient a second treatment comprising a pharmaceutical composition.
 54. The method of claim 53, wherein said second treatment is administered prior to, concurrent with, or subsequent to administration of said composition comprising said antibody.
 55. The method of claim 53, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 56. The method of claim 55, wherein said composition pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent.
 57. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a monoclonal antibody; c. a single chain antibody; d. a diabody; e. a triabody; f. a tetrabody; and g. an IgG2 antibody.
 58. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is selected from the group consisting of: a. a human antibody; b. a monoclonal antibody; c. a single chain antibody; and d. an IgG2 antibody.
 59. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is a human antibody.
 60. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is a monoclonal antibody.
 61. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is a human monoclonal antibody.
 62. The method of claim 52, wherein said antibody is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody.
 63. The method of claim 62, wherein said antibody is glycosylated.
 64. The method of claim 63, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 65. The method of claim 64, wherein said composition pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent. 